By Alfred ZachariaThe Archbishop Ruwa'ichi made these remarks during a visit by TRA’s Commissioner General, Yusuph Juma Mwenda, to his home in Dar es Salaam. The visit was part of TRA’s efforts to thank taxpayers, and the Archbishop expressed that paying and collecting taxes is important for the country's growth and a civic responsibility.
He praised the current tax collection system and the close relationship between TRA and the public.
"On behalf of all Tanzanians, I want to thank you for the great work you're doing. We will continue to encourage people to fulfill their tax duties for their own development," Archbishop Ruwa'ichi said.
He also appreciated TRA's focus on fairness in tax collection, ensuring that no one is treated unfairly. He urged TRA to maintain and strengthen this approach.
The Archbishop emphasized that TRA’s efforts to collect taxes based on people's ability to pay, and to use the collected funds for the benefit of all, regardless of political beliefs, are essential. He confirmed his ongoing support for the tax authority.
TRA's Commissioner General, Yusuph Juma Mwenda, said the purpose of his visit was to thank Archbishop Ruwa'ichi for his work in encouraging tax payments, particularly recognizing the contributions made by Catholic Church institutions.
Mwenda highlighted that December is the month for thanking taxpayers and mentioned that some Church institutions, particularly in education and healthcare, have made significant contributions to the country’s tax revenue, sometimes benefiting from tax exemptions according to the law.
"Archbishop, you have been a strong advocate for taxes, and we’ve had good cooperation with Church institutions.
We are here to thank you and to ask for your continued support in 2025 to help us encourage more tax payments," said Commissioner General Mwenda.
He also emphasized that paying taxes for the country’s development is a matter of faith because taxes help fund essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
"We respect religious institutions because they represent many people. We will continue to work with you to ensure fair tax collection and that no one is unfairly treated.
Our goal is to make sure everyone has an equal chance in the market," Mwenda added.
TRA remains committed to supporting taxpayers in voluntarily fulfilling their tax obligations.