WATAF Urges Media Partnership to Boost Tax Trust and Compliance
By Patience Ikpeme
The West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) is calling for tax agencies and news sproutlets across Africa to work closer together. The group says that a free press is one of the most important tools for making sure people pay their taxes, keeping government spending honest, and helping countries grow.
In a message to celebrate World Press Freedom Day, WATAF explained that a strong and independent media is a main pillar of a fair tax system. The group believes that when the public receives clear information, they are more likely to trust the government and follow tax laws.
Executive Secretary of WATAF, Jules Tapsoba, said that reporters are essential for making sure tax systems work correctly. “A free and responsible press is indispensable to transparent tax systems. By informing citizens and holding institutions accountable, the media strengthens trust, improves compliance, and supports sustainable domestic revenue mobilisation,” Mr. Tapsoba stated.
The organization noted that African countries need to collect more money locally to fund public services. This goal is much easier to reach when people understand where their money goes. The Forum pointed out that when journalists write professional and honest stories about taxes, it helps stop people from cheating the system and helps catch those involved in corruption or illegal money transfers.
WATAF thanked journalists across the continent for doing their jobs well, even when the work is difficult. The group said that reporting on how the government handles money is a vital part of keeping democracy strong and making sure leaders answer to the people.
The Forum also asked tax offices across Africa to be more open and friendly toward the media. They described the press as a partner that can help teach the public about tax rules and build confidence in the system. According to the group, when tax offices and the media talk to each other, it leads to better tax collection and more money for national projects like roads and schools.
As many African countries change their tax laws, WATAF said that protecting the freedom of the press is a must. The group believes that a strong media is the best way to make sure everyone plays by the rules and to help the economy grow for everyone.
The group ended its message by promising to keep pushing for honesty and teamwork. They plan to keep working with the media to build tax systems that people in West Africa and across the whole continent can actually trust.
