The 6th West African Tax Forum (WATAF) High-Level Policy Dialogue held in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, was a pivotal event for tax authorities and policymakers across West Africa. As countries in the region continue to face the challenge of increasing domestic revenue, modernizing tax systems, and ensuring compliance in a rapidly evolving economic landscape, this forum served as a critical platform for discussing strategies to drive sustainable growth and development.
The event brought together representatives from various West African revenue authorities, international organizations such as the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) and the Centre de Rencontres et d’Études des Dirigeants des Administrations Fiscales (CREDAF), and key stakeholders in the tax and financial sectors. Discussions centered on addressing pressing issues like expanding the tax base, implementing digital solutions for tax administration, and improving governance and public trust in tax systems.
Key Takeaways from the WATAF High-Level Policy Dialogue
For those who couldn’t attend, here are the key takeaways:
- Tax Authorities in West Africa Are Concerned About Tax System Modernization
Revenue authorities are grappling with the need to modernize tax systems to enhance efficiency and transparency. They are seeking ways to improve tax compliance, reduce fraud, and optimize resource allocation for enforcement and audit.
- There is a Strong Focus on Knowledge and Capacity Building
Strengthening the skills and capabilities of tax officials is a top priority. Authorities are focusing on continuous staff training, knowledge management, and even leveraging the expertise of retired tax officers to improve operational practices.
- E-Invoicing and Digital Solutions Are Hot Topics
Digital transformation, particularly through e-Invoicing and real-time reporting systems, is high on the agenda. Tax authorities are exploring solutions that support real-time transaction controls and enhance VAT and GST compliance.
- Ethics and Public Trust in Tax Administration
Building public trust through transparency and integrity in tax administration is a pressing concern. Authorities are working to develop robust internal integrity policies and extend these to taxpayer interactions to address negative perceptions.
- Domestic Resource Mobilization (DRM) is Key for Sustainable Development
DRM strategies are being discussed as vital tools for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This includes expanding the tax base, improving compliance, and aligning tax policies with development objectives to foster economic growth and reduce inequality.
Congratulations to the New Leadership of WATAF
First and foremost, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the new Chairman of WATAF, Mr. Benoit Zongo, and the incoming Executive Secretary of WATAF, Mr. Jules Tapsoba. Their leadership will be instrumental in driving the forum’s mission of enhancing tax systems to support economic growth and social development across Africa.
How NRD Companies Can Help
NRD Companies is dedicated to supporting revenue authorities in West Africa with innovative solutions and consultancy services. Our flagship solution, the Virtual Fiscal Device Management System (VFDMS©), provides a real-time tax reporting platform that enables authorities to monitor and manage tax compliance, identify tax fraud, and reduce tax leakage. VFDMS© supports continuous transaction controls, a key element in managing VAT and GST compliance in real-time, which is crucial for effective tax administration in the digital economy.
In addition to our digital solutions, we offer comprehensive consultancy services to help revenue authorities:
- Assess compliance solutions and approaches.
- Define legislation for the introduction of e-Invoicing, e-Reporting, and fiscalization.
- Reshape internal processes to support effective change management.
- Engage and educate taxpayers to ensure a smooth transition and strong compliance culture.
By combining advanced technology with robust institutional support, we empower revenue authorities to achieve sustainable development goals and foster economic growth.
Our participation in the 6th WATAF High-Level Policy Dialogue has provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by West African revenue authorities. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with WATAF members and other stakeholders to promote efficient, effective, and equitable tax systems that contribute to economic growth and social development across the region.
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Learn how NRD Companies’ VFDMS© solution and consultancy services can help revenue authorities modernize their tax systems, improve compliance, and enhance public trust.
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