By Amin Kef (Ranger)
At the World Bank’s Sierra Leone Economic Update launch on Thursday, October 10, 2024, the Commissioner-General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Jeneba J. Bangura, delivered a clear message of commitment to addressing the tax compliance gap and fully operationalizing the country’s updated tax policies. Speaking alongside key Government officials, policymakers, members of the diplomatic and donor communities, Jeneba Bangura laid out critical steps to improve the effectiveness of the Finance Acts of 2023 and 2024.
During her address, she emphasized that the NRA is rolling out several key measures to close the tax compliance gap, including the enhancement of digital infrastructure. The Commissioner-General pointed to the importance of the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS), a digital platform aimed at streamlining the tax reporting process and reducing opportunities for tax evasion.
“These measures will make it easier for individuals and businesses to comply with our tax policies,” Jeneba Bangura stated, underscoring the NRA’s focus on improving accessibility and transparency. She added that simplifying the reporting process is critical to fostering a culture of voluntary compliance, which will in turn bolster revenue collection and economic growth.
The Sierra Leone Economic Update, organized by the World Bank, featured a panel of high-level discussions centered on key economic challenges and solutions for Sierra Leone. Jeneba Bangura’s contribution to the event was particularly relevant, as her leadership of the NRA comes at a time when the country is striving to improve revenue generation while managing its debt obligations.
In her remarks, the NRA Commissioner-General highlighted the pivotal role that tax policy reforms have played in increasing revenue, stressing that compliance across all sectors is crucial for achieving sustainable economic growth. “Compliance improvement is at the forefront of our revenue mobilization efforts and will continue to be our focus in 2025,” she affirmed, adding that these reforms are critical to the country’s financial stability.
The Commissioner-General further pointed to the importance of stakeholder engagement and public awareness campaigns as part of the NRA’s ongoing efforts. She emphasized the need for collaboration with civil society and business associations, aiming to simplify tax laws, policies, and regulations to encourage broader participation. By demystifying the tax process and fostering open dialogue, Mrs. Bangura hopes to strengthen voluntary compliance.
“As we close compliance gaps and fully implement the Finance Acts of 2023 and 2024, our goal is to build a stronger economy and ensure that taxation is fair for everyone,” Jeneba Bangura stated in her closing remarks. “Together, we can build a more prosperous Sierra Leone.”
The launch of the Sierra Leone Economic Update provided an important platform for the NRA to reaffirm its commitment to comprehensive tax reform, setting the stage for continued economic resilience in the years ahead.
