By Yusuf Obbo
Obboyusuf43@gmail.com
The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has conducted a taxpayer sensitisation workshop in Busoga East, bringing together traders and other taxpayers from seven districts to promote tax compliance and address concerns about the tax system.
The workshop, held at NV Fort Lugard Hotel in Iganga, attracted taxpayers from Iganga, Mayuge, Kaliro, Bugweri, Namutumba, Luuka and Bugiri districts.
The engagement focused on several areas, including new tax measures, tax payment procedures, categories of taxes, proper record-keeping and challenges taxpayers face when dealing with URA officials.
One of the key issues discussed was URA’s planned use of the National Identification Number (NIN) in the taxpayer identification process to replace the Tax Identification Number (TIN).
According to URA, the move is intended to simplify taxpayer registration and enable more eligible Ugandans to enter the tax system.
The workshop also gave taxpayers an opportunity to raise concerns directly with URA officials, particularly on which businesses are required to pay taxes and how tax obligations are determined.
However, URA officials also used the engagement to warn traders against smuggling, particularly in Iganga, which the authority identified as an area facing challenges related to the illegal movement and trade of goods.
URA cautioned traders against engaging in smuggling, warning that the practice could attract substantial penalties and enforcement action.
Ahamya Obedi, a duty officer attached to URA Iganga Station, urged taxpayers to comply with tax laws and provide accurate information whenever URA officials visit their businesses.
He said poor record-keeping and the provision of false information make it difficult for URA to establish the correct tax liability of a business.
“Many people don’t want to keep records of their sales for their businesses and when URA officials appear at their businesses, they tend to give false information. This makes it hard for URA to help them determine the exact rate to pay, which can lead to high charges, penalties and enforcement,” Ahamya said.
Ahamya encouraged taxpayers to maintain proper records of their business transactions and consult URA whenever they face difficulties in understanding or meeting their tax obligations.
He said seeking guidance from the authority can help taxpayers avoid unnecessary penalties and ensure compliance with the country’s tax laws.
The workshop comes as URA seeks to expand Uganda’s tax base and improve voluntary compliance by ensuring that taxpayers understand their obligations.
For traders in Busoga East, the engagement provided an opportunity to seek clarification on taxation and raise concerns about the need for clear information and guidance on the taxes applicable to different businesses.
