THE Institute of Tax Administration (ITA) has taken another step toward enhancing regional revenue systems by submitting a proposal to assist Somaliland in establishing its revenue authority.

This follows Somaliland's request for support in developing a robust framework for customs and tax management.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam yesterday, ITA Rector Prof Isaya Jairo shared this development during a press briefing on the institute’s achievements and the upcoming 17th graduation ceremony scheduled for tomorrow.

He said that the event will be officiated by the Minister for Finance, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba and will draw participants from government, private sectors, and neighboring countries.

Prof Jairo emphasized ITA's track record in enhancing revenue collection systems across Africa.

He said a standout achievement was its collaboration with South Sudan to craft a five-year strategic plan for customs and tax management.

 The partnership resulted in South Sudan increasing its tax revenue collection from 5 percent to an impressive 20 percent.

In addition to South Sudan, he said ITA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Comoros to strengthen its customs and tax management capacities.

The institute has also conducted extensive training programs for tax authority staff from the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Zanzibar Revenue Board (ZRB) and other African nations such as Botswana, Malawi and South Sudan.

“We are ready to support Somaliland in building its tax administration capacity to enhance revenue collection. This aligns with the successful work we’ve done in other countries, including South Sudan,” he said.

He said the upcoming graduation ceremony will see 417 students receiving qualifications across a range of programs including East African Customs and Freight Forwarding Practicing Certificates(195),Basic Technician Certificate in Customs and Tax Management(28).

Others were Diploma in Customs and Tax Management (61), Bachelor’s Degree in Customs and Tax Management (119) and Postgraduate Diploma in Taxation (14).

The don also announced the introduction of open-distance electronic learning this academic year adding that the initiative aims to increase annual student enrollment from 5,000 to 7,000, expanding access to ITA’s specialized training programs.

He said ITA remains committed to fostering regional development through consultancy services and tailored training programs.

 The institute, which operates as part of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to address the evolving needs of customs and tax practitioners.

He said by working with countries like Somaliland, Zanzibar, Botswana, and Malawi, ITA continues to play a pivotal role in improving revenue collection and strengthening tax systems across Africa.