One way in which the GIRAV strengthens tax compliance is to organize seminars throughout the country. Series of seminars were convened in other Regions and tertiary institutions with the participation of the Local Authorities and other stakeholders to heighten taxpayer education. The recent one was held in the NBR from the 10-11May, 2017 at the Farafenni General Hospital Conference Hall where the Governor NBR, Seyfolu, Alkalolu and a cross section of the Business Community participated in the two day forum. The participants were introduced to the various taxes administered by the GIRAV, such as Personal Income (PAYE), Capital Gains, Rental and VAT Taxes to name but a few.
Mr. Lamin B.F. Jassey, the Corporate & Public Affairs Manager who addressed participants on behalf of the Commissioner General, in his opening statement stated the importance of the gathering as part of G.R.A.’S attempt to educate and sensitize the general public on the taxes it administers.
“Today’s event is special in many aspects given the fact that this forum brings together traditional rulers at the local level whose authority will help facilitate tax compliance among their people. This forum also gives us the GIRAV an opportunity to come to the ground and interact with you, listen to your concerns relating to Tax Laws and payment in The Gambia” Mr. Jassey remarked. He further explained that these efforts are geared towards modernizing the tax systems and improving reforms recently undertaken by government are aimed at promoting macro-economic stability improve revenue mobilization, promote efficiency in resource allocation among others.
Furthermore, the Seminar was part of a series of programmes being undertaken with key stakeholders in the country to deepen understanding and improve compliance. It is our hope that we continue to support the implementation of the government’s tax reforms for nation building. Continuing his statement he said “we value and appreciate your partnership and we kindly urge you to always engage us on matters of taxation to enhance greater understanding and appreciation”.
In conclusion, he thanked the government of The Gambia and UNDP for the support and collaboration on the implementation of our tax reforms also enjoined the participants to fully participate in order to improve their knowledge and understanding of tax issues. Other speakers were the Deputy Governor Mustapha Saidy, the CEO Farafenni General Hospital Dr. Mamadi Cham and the Acting Deputy Director Compliance, Taxpayer Education and Training Manager George W. Thomas who equally reechoed the significance of the forum and the facilitation of understanding our Tax Laws, various Taxes and to increase compliance.
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