The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has launched a four-day educational campaign on tax at various landing sites in Soroti, Eastern Uganda. This initiative includes locations such as Kagwara, Bugondo, Namutinda, Karamonjong, Akocho, Kibuka, and Apure.
The primary goal of this campaign is to inform fishing communities about their tax duties and to increase revenue collection from those who are licensed and active in fishing.
Fishermen at these landing sites are required to pay income tax for their small businesses under the presumptive tax category, which is paid annually.
However, Moses Ojambo, Acting Supervisor in Soroti, noted a challenge with fishermen who avoid taxes by remaining on the waters until URA officers leave. Ojambo explained that some fishermen mistakenly believe that by paying for their fishing licenses, they have also fulfilled their tax obligations, which is not the case.
To address this issue, Ojambo emphasized the need for collaboration with local authorities and marine officers who issue licenses and monitor the waters. This collaboration would ensure that fishermen pay taxes immediately after obtaining licenses, as both the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries and URA charge fees.
URA’s engagement with fishing communities extends to various categories, including boat owners who rent out boats, fishermen who conduct fishing, and fishmongers who buy and sell fish.
Stella Akemo, one of the educators, highlighted that URA can only enforce tax obligations on licensed boats, creating a loophole for revenue loss from unlicensed fishermen operating on landing sites.
Ojambo stressed the importance of cooperation with local authorities and marine officers, who have close interactions with fishermen, to prevent revenue losses. He also emphasized the need for extensive tax education in the Eastern region.
The Soroti Domestic Tax Office serves a significant number of taxpayers from ten districts, including Soroti, Serere, Kaberamaido, Amuria, Katakwi, Kumi, Bukedea, Ngora, Kalaki, and Kapelebyong.
