Mbeya. The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has launched a door-to-door tax education campaign in Mbeya District, aiming to equip traders with essential knowledge on taxation, address their tax-related grievances, and create a more enabling environment for tax compliance.
The initiative, which marks a renewed effort by TRA to engage directly with taxpayers at their places of business, is designed to promote voluntary tax compliance while ensuring that businesspeople understand their rights and obligations under the law.
Mbeya District Commissioner, Mr Beno Malisa, officiated the launch and emphasised the importance of building a culture of cooperation between traders and the tax authority.
He urged business operators to embrace the opportunity and use it to raise any concerns or challenges they face.
“This campaign is not only about educating traders but also about listening to them. When traders understand the tax system and their concerns are addressed, it becomes easier for them to pay their taxes honestly and on time,” he said.
Mr Malisa noted that the government relies on tax revenues to deliver key public services such as free education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
He therefore called on traders to take the initiative seriously and support the TRA officers who will be visiting their premises.
“I appeal to all traders in the district to welcome TRA officials during this campaign, present their issues without fear, and contribute to building a tax system that works for everyone,” he added.
TRA Chief Public Relations Office,r Mr Hudson Kamoga, said the month-long exercise in Mbeya is part of a broader national campaign, aimed at strengthening the relationship between TRA and the business community.
“The campaign will not only offer education but also provide immediate solutions to complaints raised by traders,” he said.
“We believe this will help foster a culture of mutual understanding and voluntary compliance.”
Traders at the SIDO market in Mbeya welcomed the initiative, praising TRA for taking tax education directly to the people.
They said the campaign had already started to clear up confusion over various tax procedures and requirements.
“This kind of education is very helpful,” said one trader. “We get to ask questions, understand our obligations better, and even get help on the spot when we have problems. We hope TRA will continue with this approach.”
TRA affirmed that the door-to-door tax education campaign is a continuous exercise conducted in all regions, and it will soon be rolled out in Njombe Region after the Mbeya phase concludes.
The Authority reiterated its commitment to providing taxpayers with the knowledge, support, and environment they need to meet their tax obligations with confidence and ease.
