As 2024 wraps up, we take stock of Uganda Revenue Authority’s (URA) performance, highlighting its progress, successes, challenges and lessons learned throughout the year.
Revenue Collection: Exceeding Targets
URA surpassed its revenue collection target by 5%, collecting UGX 22.4 trillion (approximately USD 6 billion) between January and December 2024. This feat demonstrates the authority’s commitment to funding Uganda’s development agenda.
Key Achievements:
Digital Transformation: URA launched an online tax payment system, reducing processing time by 70%.
Taxpayer Registration: Over 200,000 new taxpayers registered, increasing the tax base.
Compliance Enhancement: URA introduced risk-based audits, resulting in a 25% increase in compliance.
Trade Facilitation: Streamlined customs procedures reduced clearance time by 50%.
Capacity Building: Trained 500 staff members in tax administration and customs procedures.
Challenges Overcome:
Economic Uncertainty: Global economic fluctuations impacted revenue collection.
Tax Evasion: URA addressed tax evasion schemes through intelligence-driven audits.
Infrastructure Constraints: Upgrades to customs infrastructure improved efficiency.
Awards and Recognition:
Africa Tax Authority of the Year: URA won this prestigious award for excellence in tax administration.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) Commendation: URA’s reforms and revenue performance were praised by the IMF.
Looking Ahead to 2025:
Enhancing Digitalization: Expanding online services to improve taxpayer experience.
Regional Cooperation: Strengthening ties with neighboring countries to combat cross-border tax evasion.
Taxpayer Education: Intensifying public awareness campaigns to promote voluntary compliance.
URA’s 2024 performance demonstrates its dedication to efficient revenue collection, innovative solutions, and overcoming challenges.
“Collecting with Integrity, Serving with Excellence”