TRA insists on accountability as it launches the Ethics Forum

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda, has called on TRA staff and tax stakeholders to strengthen ethical conduct in order to increase revenue collection and ensure that taxpayers’ rights are protected.

Mwenda made these remarks on April 24, 2026, in Dar es Salaam during a conference on ethics in tax collection, alongside the launch of the Ethics Forum for TRA stakeholders.

The event aimed to promote transparency, accountability, and trust within the country’s tax system.

Speaking at the event, Mwenda outlined five key ethical principles that should be observed, beginning with the fair and honest enforcement of tax laws.

He also emphasized the importance of closing loopholes for corruption through the use of digital systems such as the Integrated Domestic Revenue Administration System (IDRAS), which is designed to reduce direct contact and curb corrupt practices.

Mwenda stressed the need for transparency in tax processes, noting every taxpayer should clearly understand the correct amount of tax they are required to pay and the deadlines involved.

This, he said, would help build trust and reduce unnecessary complaints.

On institutional accountability, he explained that TRA has established procedures to educate its staff and take disciplinary action whenever ethical standards are violated, ensuring the institution maintains high integrity.

“The authority has introduced a digital platform called Sikika, which we use to provide education and enable taxpayers to submit complaints and receive prompt feedback, thereby improving service efficiency,” Mwenda said.

He added that the Ethics Forum consists of 20 members and will serve as an important platform for receiving and processing suggestions from taxpayers and other business stakeholders.

He also encouraged business people to report any ethical challenges they encounter.