RUVUMA Regional Commissioner, Col. Ahmed Abbas Ahmed, has urged businesspeople in the region to adhere to essential business requirements, including issuing and demanding correct receipts and avoiding tax evasion which hinders government revenue collection.

Col. Ahmed made the appeal at the weekend while addressing local businesspeople, Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) employees    including Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda at an awards ceremony for top taxpayers in Songea Municipality.

 He emphasised the importance of paying taxes on time to enable the government   meets its targets, such as improving infrastructure and building schools and health facilities.

The regional commissioner also urged continued cooperation with TRA and encouraged businesspeople to voluntarily and promptly pay their taxes. He further advised TRA employees in the region to avoid corrupt practices that could undermine revenue collection.

 Mwenda highlighted the significance of fostering strong relationships between the business community and TRA to enhance business operations and boost government revenue. He instructed TRA staff to refrain from soliciting bribes and emphasised the importance of tax assessments to minimise complaints.

 Titto Mbilinyi, Tanzania Business Community Chairman in Ruvuma Region acknowledged challenges faced by businesspeople and urged TRA to continue offering tax education to help taxpayers meet their obligations with ease.

 Gideon Mpilime, Chairman of the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA) in Ruvuma, commended the government for bringing businesspeople closer to TRA and addressing their challenges effectively.

 During the ceremony, several businesspeople, both large and small, were hailed for their timely tax payments. One awardee, Happyness Kimaro of Kimongo Construction Company, praised TRA for   professionalism and creating   conducive environment for businesses. She urged TRA to continue providing tax education to further empower business people to pay taxes promptly.