Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has said critics on electronic transactions levies zeroing on multiple deductions from one source hold water hence the Government is currently working on the matter.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Dodoma which was attended by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office-Parliament, Policy and Coordination, George Simbachawene, Minister of State in the President’s Office, Regional Administration and Local Governments Mr Innocent Bashungwa and Minister of State (Policy, Parliament, Labour, Employment, Youth and the Disabled) Prof Joyce Lazaro Ndalichako, the Minister of Finance said the State will soon come out with answers.
However, Dr Mwigulu told reporters that levies on electronic transactions are a solidarity funding plan which will enable the country to execute approximately 30tri/- backbone projects; including construction of Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project.
According to the Finance Minister #Tanzania has managed to issue 221bn/- loans to students of higher learning institutions, 117bn/- to construct health centres and improve the education sector, thanks to levies charged on electronic transactions.
Finance Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said the Government will work on recommendations from wananchi over levies on electronic transactions.
He invited more recommendations from ordinary citizens and academicians on how to improve levies.
On his part, Minister of State (PO-RALG), Mr Innocent Bashungwa has said inclusive levy system will help the country to reduce a widen gap between the haves and the have nots.
He said through the system, the country is improving social services including health and education.