Crystal Kabajwara: From Tax Consultant to Trailblazing Chairperson of Uganda's Tax Appeals Tribunal

Crystal Kabajwara has immersed herself in the tax field since starting as a consultant at PwC in 2007. She advanced through roles like senior associate and director in international tax and transfer pricing before making history in April 2024 as the inaugural female chairperson of the 25-year-old Tax Appeals Tribunal.

Her path began in law but pivoted to tax through intentional decisions and mentor guidance, including early specialization in transfer pricing. Kabajwara views careers as built step-by-step, not single leaps, requiring courage for shifts like entering public service.

Leadership, for her, mirrors maturing into adulthood—rooted in continuous learning, reflection, and adaptation. A Pan-African program at Makerere University sparked her continental vision. Yet, she navigates gender biases, like the ‘double bind’ where women leaders face criticism for firmness or empathy.

In the high-stakes Tribunal environment, she fosters purpose-driven teams focused on fair, efficient tax dispute resolution to bolster economic stability. Transitioning from private sector decisiveness, she now champions transformational leadership emphasizing trust and growth.

Governance is foundational for trust and success, she asserts, evolving from established PwC systems to strengthening public frameworks. Beyond her role, Kabajwara advocates mentorship, workplace flexibility for women with caregiving duties, and cultural shifts to advance female leaders.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)