Zacch Adedeji, Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has urged African tax administrators to prioritize indigenous solutions to the continent’s challenges rather than relying solely on external sources.
At a three-day council meeting of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) in Lagos, Adedeji emphasized the importance of African-driven initiatives in addressing regional issues, especially in local resource mobilization.
ATAF, headquartered in Pretoria, South Africa, serves as a crucial platform for African tax administrators to enhance capacity, achieve revenue goals, and advance the role of taxation in African governance and state-building.
Adedeji, who also serves as the president of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA), highlighted the significance of prioritizing ATAF’s activities and upholding its founding principles.
He stressed that solutions to Africa’s challenges must originate from within the continent rather than relying on external platforms.
In his remarks, Edward Kieswetter, ATAF vice-chairman and Commissioner General of the South African Revenue Service, reiterated the pivotal role of ATAF in capacity building and technological advancement.
He underscored its significance in providing a unified voice for African tax administrators globally, inspiring the audience about the potential for growth and progress.
The Lagos Council meeting brought together representatives from various African countries, reaffirming their commitment to fostering sustainable development and prosperity through effective tax administration and collaboration.
The meeting highlighted the importance of smooth leadership transitions within ATAF and showcased the collaborative efforts aimed at advancing tax administration and governance across the continent.
