Musasizi Targets 20% Tax-to-GDP Ratio, Emphasizes URA Integrity

Finance Minister Henry Musasizi has challenged the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to significantly boost the nation’s tax-to-GDP ratio, aiming to raise it from the current approximately 14% to a target of at least 20%. This strategic objective, Musasizi explained, hinges not just on increased collection but fundamentally on restoring and maintaining public trust in the tax system.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for 174 newly recruited URA staff who completed leadership training, Musasizi underscored that their role extends beyond mere tax collection. He emphasized that every interaction with taxpayers presents an opportunity to either strengthen or erode confidence in the URA and the government. Therefore, he urged the officers to handle the information, resources, and authority entrusted to them with the utmost responsibility, ensuring that revenue administration is consistently anchored in fairness, professionalism, and integrity.

The minister highlighted that Uganda’s growing economy provides a crucial window to enhance domestic revenue mobilization, thereby reducing reliance on borrowing for development financing. With the economy expanding, Musasizi believes that reaching the 20% tax-to-GDP target is achievable and essential for self-sustained development. This will necessitate improved compliance and a sustained public belief in the fairness of the tax system.

Musasizi also encouraged the new officers to embrace technological advancements and commit to continuous learning, viewing their recent training as a foundational step in their broader responsibilities. He stated that their role is to foster a culture where Ugandans understand that paying taxes is a vital contribution to national progress. The commitment to this goal was echoed by URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi Rujoki, who assured the government of the authority’s dedication to achieving the 20% target.

https://nilepost.co.ug/news/372417/musasizi-sets-20-tax-to-gdp-target-demands-greater-trust-in-ura