In a bid to promote tax compliance and awareness, James Malinzi the Assistant Commissioner Risk Management (Customs) has tasked Customs staff at the border stations to conduct stakeholder engagements and tax education in communities to foster voluntary compliance.

“We need to grow our tax-to-GDP ratio from 13% to 20%. To achieve this, you need to constantly engage your stakeholders such as police and local leadership,” he said.

Malinzi made this call while visiting Customs stations in South Western Uganda. The AC made stops at Ntuula, Kakunyu, Bugango and Kikagati where he tasked staff to sensitise residents at the borders on tax processes and treat them with courtesy.

He went on to applaud the development of Bugango station and advised staff to facilitate cross-border trade. He however cautioned them about the growth of smuggling cases as a result of the development.

“I also implore you to have high integrity in these areas to avoid falling into a trap, let us cherish these jobs, protect the Uganda Revenue Authority brand and ensure that we retire honourably,” he said.

By Jacquiline Emodek