By Mustapha Jallow
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) hosted a tax seminar on Tuesday for staff of the Gambia Women’s Chamber of Commerce (GWCC) to boost understanding of tax obligations, rights, and revenue laws. Held at a hotel in Senegambia, the session aimed to deepen participants’ knowledge of tax compliance, business formalization, and the processes of paying taxes and duties in The Gambia.
Essa Jallow, Deputy Commissioner General of the GRA, speaking on behalf of the Commissioner General, highlighted the significance of tax revenue in national development, stating, “This seminar is part of our commitment to clarifying the Gambian tax system, as enshrined in revenue laws, and to reinforce the importance of tax revenue in our economy.”
Jallow explained that the engagement aligns with the GRA’s Corporate Strategic Plan 2020-2024, specifically Goal 2, which focuses on enhancing client service for improved customer relations and corporate image. “This is the third GWCC cohort we have engaged on tax obligations, and we believe it has significantly improved their understanding of the tax system and its role in national development,” he said.
He further outlined ongoing efforts to modernize the revenue collection process, including the introduction of web-based systems like ASYCUDA World and the Single Window, which have boosted monthly revenue. The GRA is also working to replace the GAMTAXNET system with the Integrated Tax Management System (ITAS) to streamline online payment and tax return filing, aiming to reduce burdens on taxpayers and increase efficiency in tax collection.
Jallow assured participants that GRA will continue these engagements to support businesses in meeting their tax responsibilities while contributing to the nation’s economic progress.
