By: MODOU SARR
The Gambia Revenue Authority on Wednesday afternoon held it’s annual press conference. The convergence which was convened at the Revenue House in Banjul was attended by board members and top echelon of the institution.
Yankuba Darboe Commissioner General has told newsmen that despite external economic challenges in 2025, they were able to meet the target of 23 billion dalasi in the past year. The authority, he said has collected over 25 billion dalasi which represents a nominal growth of 21 percent when compared to last year.
CG Darboe made a rundown of some of the achievements registered which includes the successful implementation of tax administration reform and improved compliance strategies, increase outreach and education program, electronic invoicing for VAT, implementation of ITAS and most importantly the achievement of the annual revenue target among others.
According to Commissioner General Darboe, sectors such as telecommunications, banking and financial services, trade and petroleum contributed most significantly to the national revenue. The positive performance in telecommunications was driven by increase usage of digital services, banking and financial services was also driven by increase financial inclusion with the increase of fintechs.
On revenue mobilization and balancing act, CG Darboe outlined the balance revenue mobilization by protecting businesses and citizens through the introduction of digital platforms meant for compliance burden on taxpayers.
Revenue authorities all over the world have embraced the use of technology to enhance revenue collection and to make paying taxes easy for the taxpayers and with this, GRA have decided not to be left behind .
On regional cooperation, the GRA boss highlights the importance of bilateral customs administrations of Senegal and Guinea Bissau meant to enhance regional trade. The authority also plays active roles in sub regional bodies like ECOWAS, West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) and World Customs Organization. We also leveraged on international cooperation to understudy and benchmark other revenue administrations and send some of our staff for attachment.
On staff integrity, CG Darboe said, GRA has instituted strict measures to ensure integrity, professionalism and accountability among it’s staff including staff service rules, code of conduct, regular training programs, performance evaluation and a whistleblower policy that encourages reporting unethical behaviors.
Finally GRA boss pleads to those businesses still operating outside the tax net, to formalize their operations and comply with tax regulations. The authority, he said is willing to support their transition with guidance and resources that ease the process of becoming tax compliant.
CG Darboe concluded with a new year message wishing all Gambians and those living in the country a happy new year and many more. Special new year greetings to all taxpayers and the business community for a year of hope and partnership. Let us head in to the new year with a shared commitment to building a stronger, more equitable tax system that serves the interest of all citizens while fostering national development..
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