TRADERS in Morogoro Region have expressed satisfaction with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA)’s initiative to establish special camps in various areas for timely tax payment services.

The initiative aims to help business owners avoid fines after-tax deadlines.

Speaking at the Chifu Kingalu Main Market in Morogoro Municipality, businesspersons highlighted how these camps facilitate timely tax payments and help them steer clear of penalties.

One of them, Shabani Kibuhile noted that TRA now provides more community-friendly services, a marked improvement from previous approaches that often left business owners feeling antagonised.

He explained that timely tax payments contribute to better public services, such as road infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

“TRA services have become more supportive for us as they offer education, advice, and guidance on essential tax matters. They now come to us, whereas in the past, it felt like they were merely chasing us,” Kibuhile said.

He encouraged the public and fellow business owners to adhere to tax payment laws, recognising the authority’s role in enforcing these laws for national development. He stressed that a nation cannot progress without tax contributions.

Another trader, Ijumbo Majani praised the convenience of TRA’s services, stating that the proximity of these camps allows for easy access to tax services without the hassle of travelling to their offices.

“I visited the Chifu Kingalu Main Market centre, and within minutes, I received government payment services before returning to my business,” Majani shared.

He suggested that this service should be ongoing to ensure timely tax payments for all citizens.

Immaculate Chaggu, TRA taxpayer services, and education officer in Morogoro, explained that this initiative is part of a broader effort to improve revenue collection by providing government payment numbers and taxpayer education.

“We have set up camps in three locations, including Chifu Kingalu Main Market, to encourage timely payment of the third instalment without incurring interest on late payments,” Chaggu said.

She mentioned that the camps began operations on September 21 and are currently serving over 100 customers daily, a number that is expected to rise as the September 30 deadline approaches.

George Mkope, TRA senior tax officer in Morogoro, highlighted the positive impact of this service, noting a significant increase in voluntary tax payments.

“We plan to add more centres to reach a broader audience, enabling timely tax payments and helping us meet the government’s collection targets,” he said.