The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) in Zanzibar has been lauded for exceeding its tax collection targets for the 2024/2025 financial year, paving the way for critical development projects across the region.
Speaking at the annual TRA Zanzibar review meeting held at Madinat Al Bahr Zanzibar’s Minister of Finance and Planning, Hon. Dr. Saada Mkuya Salum, praised TRA’s pivotal role in funding infrastructure and public services through robust tax collection efforts.
Dr. Mkuya highlighted the tangible impact of TRA’s work, noting, “The infrastructure projects transforming Zanzibar are a direct result of your tax collection efforts. I support Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa’s directive to display signboards on tax-funded projects to encourage voluntary tax compliance.”
She urged TRA staff to continue surpassing targets and adapt to evolving economic trends, particularly by tapping into online business activities to identify new revenue streams.
The Minister also commended TRA’s Taxpayer Education and Communication Department for its ongoing efforts to raise public awareness, fostering a culture of voluntary tax compliance through effective outreach. “Your close relationship with taxpayers is key to sustaining this momentum,” she added.
TRA Commissioner General Mr. Yusuph Juma Mwenda outlined ambitious plans for the 2025/2026 financial year, targeting a tax collection goal of TZS 825.77 billion, up from TZS 647 billion collected in 2024/2025—an impressive 108% of the initial TZS 600 billion target. Mwenda emphasized expanding the tax base to promote equity rather than increasing tax rates.
“We will support compliant taxpayers, assist those facing challenges, and ensure non-compliant individuals are brought into the system fairly,” he said, highlighting Zanzibar’s tourism sector as a key area for revenue growth.
Deputy Commissioner General Mr. Mcha Hassan Mcha expressed gratitude to the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar for its support, which has enabled TRA to execute its mandate effectively. Mwenda also thanked Zanzibar’s taxpayers for their trust and cooperation, crediting them for the region’s fiscal success.
