ZRA calls integrity in tax administration

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has called for collective responsibility from stakeholders in Nakonde District in Muchinga Province in ensuring integrity in tax administration within the trading ecosystem. Nakonde ZRA Station Manager, David Mungela, said integrity is tested…

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has called for collective responsibility from stakeholders in Nakonde District in Muchinga Province in ensuring integrity in tax administration within the trading ecosystem.

Nakonde ZRA Station Manager, David Mungela, said integrity is tested when financial interests and pressure come into play.

Mr Mungela was speaking during an ethics engagement meeting with the business community held at Izukanji Lodge in Nakonde district.

The meeting was held in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Mr Mungela stated that ZRA has adopted an outward looking approach to its integrity agenda by engaging beyond its officers to include taxpayers and other players.

“Corruption, smuggling and fraud do not only affect ZRA, they increase the cost of doing business and undermine resources meant for national development,” he said.

Meanwhile, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Corruption Prevention Officer, Chindika Mtonga, said corruption disproportionately affects the vulnerable in society.

Mr Mtonga noted that while institutions such as ZRA, the Drug Enforcement Commission and Zambia Police support the Commission in fighting the vice, citizen participation remains critical.

“Citizens must join the fight against corruption because without your involvement our efforts will be in vain,” he said.

And speaking during the same meeting, Nakonde Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Thomas Botha called for enhanced collaboration between ZRA and the ACC to curb corrupt practices.

Mr Botha further commended ZRA for simplifying the process of acquiring a Taxpayer Identification Number (TPIN).

“We need to collaborate more to reduce corrupt practices and we commend ZRA for automating the issuance of TPINs,” Mr Botha said.