The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has commenced the nationwide distribution of new Smart Goods and Services Tax (GST) machines as part of efforts to strengthen tax collection and improve the electronic recording of business transactions across Sierra Leone.
The initiative, announced on Monday, 31 August 2026, targets 10,000 GST-registered businesses nationwide. It will complement the existing Electronic Cash Register system and contribute to the NRA’s broader domestic revenue mobilization drive.
According to the Authority, the Smart GST machines are designed to support accurate record-keeping, strengthen tax compliance, promote transparency and reduce revenue leakages. The technology is also expected to make it easier for businesses to properly document taxable transactions and issue valid GST receipts to customers.
Speaking during the distribution and sensitization exercise, NRA Commissioner General, Abu Martin Kanneh, described the initiative as an important step towards modernizing revenue administration and improving accountability within the country’s tax system.
“The Smart GST machines will benefit businesses and the Government by promoting accurate record-keeping, strengthening compliance and building customer confidence,” Abu Martin Kanneh stated.
He explained that the machines would create benefits for both the Government and the private sector by ensuring that taxable business transactions are properly recorded. The system is also expected to increase public confidence by providing customers with verifiable receipts for goods and services purchased.
Abu Martin Kanneh called on journalists and other media practitioners to support the nationwide public-awareness campaign by educating businesses and consumers about their respective responsibilities under the GST system.
He particularly encouraged consumers to request official GST receipts whenever they make taxable purchases, noting that public participation is crucial to the success of the initiative.
NRA officials have begun engaging business operators across the country as part of the rollout. The Authority said sensitization activities and technical assistance would continue to help registered businesses understand how to operate the machines effectively.
GST-registered businesses have been encouraged to use the machines appropriately and issue valid receipts for all taxable transactions. The NRA stressed that businesses have a responsibility to issue GST receipts, while consumers should always request them.
The nationwide distribution forms part of the NRA’s continuing efforts to modernize tax administration, improve voluntary compliance and mobilize more domestic revenue to support national development.
Businesses and members of the public seeking further information may contact the NRA through info@nra.gov.sl or call +232-80-839-839.
