The Commissioner General of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Mr. Yusuph Juma Mwenda, has called upon editors and journalists across the country to play an active role in exposing tax evaders, saying their contribution is essential in supporting national development. He also acknowledged the media for their invaluable cooperation with TRA throughout its 30 years of service.

Mr. Mwenda made the appeal during a meeting with editors held in Dar es Salaam as part of preparations for the TRA 30th Anniversary celebrations and the Presidential Taxpayer Awards, which are scheduled to take place on 1 July 2026 at the Mlimani City Conference Centre in Dar es Salaam.

He noted that tax evasion continues to undermine the country’s economy and create unfair competition in the marketplace. He therefore urged editors and journalists to help expose tax evaders, emphasizing that such efforts would make a significant contribution to protecting the nation’s economy.

The Commissioner General further explained that, over the past three decades, tax evasion methods have become increasingly sophisticated, particularly through digital platforms. He said that the implementation of the Integrated Domestic Revenue Administration System (IDRAS) will strengthen TRA’s ability to monitor taxpayers through interoperability with systems operated by other government institutions, thereby improving tax compliance.

Mr. Mwenda also highlighted that, over the last 30 years, TRA has built a closer relationship with taxpayers, leading to increased voluntary tax compliance and greater public confidence in the Authority. This has resulted in a substantial increase in tax revenue, enabling the Government to finance key development projects across the country.

Concluding the meeting, Mr. Mwenda expressed his sincere appreciation to taxpayers nationwide for their continued commitment to paying taxes and extended his gratitude to editors for their enduring partnership with TRA. He emphasized that the Authority’s achievements over the past three decades would not have been possible without the support of patriotic taxpayers.