By Mustapha Jallow
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Agib Bank, a leading Gambian commercial bank, to streamline revenue collection and enhance transparency and accountability in tax payments.
The agreement, signed on Thursday, aims to ease the burden on taxpayers who previously had to travel long distances to the GRA headquarters in Banjul to pay their taxes. Under this new arrangement, taxpayers can now make payments at any Agib Bank branch across the country, reducing both cost and inconvenience.
The signing ceremony, held at the GRA headquarters, brought together senior officials from both institutions, including GRA board members and Agib Bank representatives.
Yankuba Darboe, Commissioner General of GRA, emphasized that the partnership marks a significant milestone in the authority’s ongoing efforts to improve revenue collection through commercial banks.
“By partnering with Agib Bank today, we have not only strengthened our collection mechanisms but also improved convenience, transparency, and accountability in the process,” Darboe stated.
He further described the MoU as a testament to collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to efficiency and service delivery.
“Revenue collection is the backbone of any economy. It ensures that governments and institutions have the necessary resources to provide essential services, invest in infrastructure, and drive sustainable development,” he added.
Commissioner Darboe commended Agib Bank for its investment in digital payment solutions, branch networks, and customer service, which he said would streamline payment processes, reduce inefficiencies, and minimize revenue leakages.
“With automated and real-time reporting, this partnership will enhance transparency, minimize errors, and increase accountability in revenue collection,” he noted.
Darboe further expressed confidence that the partnership would create economic opportunities, foster development, and positively impact communities.
“Our dedication and vision have made this collaboration possible. We must continue to leverage technology, enhance compliance measures, and explore innovative financial solutions to sustain and improve revenue collection. Together, we can build a more efficient and resilient financial ecosystem that benefits all,” he concluded.
The agreement reflects GRA’s ongoing commitment to modernizing tax collection and fostering a more transparent and efficient financial system in The Gambia.
