Mustapha Jallow
Africell GSM Ltd emerged as the pinnacle of tax compliance at the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) awards ceremony, captivating national and regional acclaim.
The night-ceremony was highly attended by cabinet ministers, senior government officials, heads of security services, businessmen/women, GRA officials and other staff, private business institutions, officials from Senegalese Customs, other business enteritis, musicians and the list goes on.
ORYX Energies Gambia Ltd secured the second spot for the title of large taxpayer of the year 2023, with Anne Braren T/A Top Shop leading the medium taxpayer category, followed closely by Primabet Gambia Ltd.
In a reversal from the previous year, Africell outshone Eco-bank Gambia Ltd to collect the most compliant taxpayer award for 2023.
In the banking sector, Ecobank claimed the top position for Bank of the Year 2023, followed by Trust Bank Gambia Ltd.
Qcell Ltd clinched the GSM Company of the Year 2023 for the second time, with Comium Gambia Ltd securing second spot.
Jah Oil Ltd retained its title as Oil Marketing Company of the Year 2023, with ORYX Energies Gambia Limited securing the runner-up position.
J and B Trading Company Ltd emerged as the Importer of the Year 2023, with Pankaj Kumar Badhawan securing second position.
Malak Chemist Co Ltd topped the Healthcare Taxpayer of the Year 2023 category, followed closely by Afrimed International Ltd.
Numerous other companies, businesses, and private institutions were recognized across various categories during the event.
President Adama Barrow, who presided over the ceremony, emphasized the vital role of taxes in bolstering the nation’s financial infrastructure and essential services. He commended GRA for fostering compliance through initiatives like the annual awards ceremony.
Under Barrow’s leadership, tax revenue has surged by 72 percent since 2017, reaching D15.79 billion in 2023, a testament to GRA’s innovative strategies and dedicated staff.
“It is with joy and satisfaction that I am in your midst tonight to appreciate our distinguished taxpayers at this annual Award Ceremony. I am thankful, therefore, to the Almighty Allah and to you for the honour of gracing the occasion,” President Barrow tells taxpayers and the stakeholders present, while addressing the gathering.
“I express my profound gratitude to the GRA under the leadership of Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe,” he stated.
Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe highlighted GRA’s commitment to enhancing taxpayer experience through digitalization and reform initiatives, ensuring efficiency, transparency and convenience.
Madam Lucy Faye Jagne, GRA’s Board Chair, reiterated the authority’s dedication to excellence and innovation, recognized by international financial institutions.
Foroyaa will feature the full list of award winners in its upcoming edition, capturing the celebration of Gambia’s tax champions.
