Ndejembi graces CATA conference, insists on the use of digital technology for tax administration

ARUSHA: VICE President Deogratius Ndejembi said the use of modern technology systems is a key driver of improved tax collection, greater transparency, stronger tax administration and easier tax compliance.

Ndejembi made the remarks in Arusha today, October 6, 2026, while opening the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) conference, stressing that technology is an important tool for increasing domestic revenue and improving services to taxpayers.

He said the use of technology has become increasingly important in improving revenue collection systems, hence the conference’s focus on a theme highlighting the role of technology in tax administration.

However, the Vice-President said success in revenue collection cannot depend on technology alone, but also requires sound, robust, clear and predictable policies, as well as efficient tax administration that responds to taxpayers’ needs.

He also stressed the importance of international cooperation on tax matters, saying cross-border trade, multinational companies, digital transactions and financial assets held abroad have made cooperation among tax authorities in different countries increasingly important.

Ndejembi said Tanzania continues to strengthen its participation in international tax cooperation, including the exchange of tax information and the provision of administrative assistance between countries. He said such cooperation is essential for enhancing tax certainty, facilitating information exchange, and preventing and resolving tax disputes.

He said effective coordination among countries can help safeguard government revenues while reducing the possibility of double taxation and eliminating uncertainty for legitimate investors.

“A country that attracts investment is not one without taxes, but one with clear and stable tax rules that are administered fairly, supported by sound customs and revenue collection procedures,” he said.

ALSO READ: Tanzania enhances its digital technology, ports, scientific data to advance its blue economy

Earlier, CATA President Abu Tariq Jamaluddin said the use of modern technology has helped CATA member countries simplify tax administration by creating easier environments for revenue collection and helping taxpayers comply with tax laws.

He said the conference theme seeks to promote greater use of technology, adding that CATA will continue to facilitate the adoption of technology in tax collection in order to strengthen tax administration among member countries.

Jamaluddin said the conference would enable participating countries to exchange knowledge and experiences on tax administration and the use of technology.

Meanwhile, Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Commissioner General Yusuph Juma Mwenda, whose authority is hosting the conference, said TRA has made significant progress in adopting technology, which has further improved tax administration services by enhancing transparency and efficiency.

He said through the use of technology, TRA has introduced the Integrated Domestic Revenue Administration System (IDRAS), which enables taxpayers to issue electronic receipts using mobile phones without the need for electronic fiscal devices. He said the system has increased voluntary tax compliance and reduced face-to-face interactions between taxpayers and TRA officials.