KAMPALA —The taxman’s officials said yesterday, the exhibition is also intended to guide the public on how to access government services, and promote growth programs such as Buy Ugandan Build Uganda (BUBU).
At least 1000 SMEs are expected to display their work to the public during the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) annual tax payer’s appreciation week, at the Kololo independence grounds.
The taxman’s officials said Tuesday September, the exhibition is also intended to guide the public on how to access government services, and promote growth programs such as Buy Ugandan Build Uganda (BUBU).
“From September 25-29, we shall have both government exhibition stalls and a good number from the private sector at the Kololo independence grounds at no cost. This is meant to enlighten the public on how government and the private sector can co-exist and benefit from each other,” said URA’s publist, Vincent Seruma.
He said during the three day event, all government ministries, departments and agencies will also provide probono services such as tax advisory and legal services, free health checks and treatment and immunization to the public.
He said the event is meant to show the link between tax collection and public accountability, as the country strives to increase of the impact of revenue spent on delivering public services.
“We are bringing together all government ministries, agencies and departments in Kololo to explain how revenue collected in the previous financial year was spent. Enhancing public accountability can be a huge driver for tax compliance,” he said.
Seruma said the taxman has invited, non-government organisations (NGOs) and civil societies, small and medium enterprises, members of the public, implementing partners and compliant tax payers.
“There will also be public debates on topical issues to ensure that there is maximum public involvement and opportunity for feedback about government programs and accountability.
The recent National Census statistics indicate that about 10 million people are engaged in economically gainful activities that place them in the tax bracket, although only 2.5% of them contribute to the national treasury.
