Tarime District Commissioner, Major Edward Gowele, has called on citizens of Sirari and surrounding areas to adhere to customs procedures and participate fully in protecting the country’s security, especially in border areas.
Speaking to Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) officers who were in Mara region to implement the instructions of Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda to provide education on the effects of smuggling as well as tax education, Tarime District Commissioner Major Edward Gowele said the challenge of smuggling and tax evasion is still great in the district due to the presence of borders with many informal routes.
He said this situation contributes to the loss of government revenue as well as endangering the security of the country, emphasizing that it is the responsibility of every citizen to participate in combating such acts.
“It is important for citizens to understand that paying taxes is their basic responsibility for national development. TRA is not an enemy, but a partner in development”, said Major Gowele.
He said he has urged citizens to cooperate with security and defense agencies by providing accurate information about smuggling activities taking place in their areas.
He has asked TRA to continue providing education to citizens as well as increasing service centers to facilitate access to tax services for traders and citizens in general.
Major Gowele has also emphasized to TRA the importance of involving grassroots leaders and politicians in tax education campaigns to ensure that the message reaches more citizens.
He has also commended TRA’s efforts to reach the area, explaining that such education will help increase public awareness, strengthen revenue collection and improve national security.
