The validation brought together participants from across pivotal departments to validate this very important working document for GRA.
In addressing stakeholders during the official opening ceremony, GRA’s Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe said: “The strategic plan is not just a road map for our operations, it represents a bold commitment to revolutionizing our tax administration processes, ensuring effective governance and fostering economic growth in The Gambia.
The plan, he explains, reflects GRA’s vision for a modernised, transparent and efficient revenue collection system that supports the sustainable development of The Gambia.“As we all know ,the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) plays the central role in our nation’s economy by ensuring the efficient and effective collection of the government revenue. Over the years, we have made significant investments in our tax administration processes, enhancing compliance, and fostering transparency.”
In spite of these good strides, CG Darboe said: “We must continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing demands of our economy and the expectations of our shareholders.”
According to the GRA leading light, as GRA embarks on this ambitious journey, their primary focus will be on the digitalisation of GRA’s tax administration processes.
“In today’s interconnected world, embracing digital innovation is not merely a choice but a necessity,” he emphasised, saying: “The shift towards a fully digitized framework will enable us to streamline our operations, enhance efficiency and provide timely and accurate services to our tax payers.”
According to him, the new strategic plan has been crafted through efforts of key stakeholders. “Your invaluable input has shaped the direction of this plan, ensuring that it aligns with the aspirations of our society and addresses the unique challenges we face in tax collection and administration,” he opined.
The 2009-2029 Corporate Strategic Plan is anchored on a singular, transformative goal, which is to complement the digitalisation of GRA’s tax administration processes, he said, highlighting: “Digitization is not just passing a trend - it is an essential transformation that will allow the GRA to deliver a better service to taxpayers, increase compliance and create transparent and accountable tax system.
”We are hoping the digitization initiatives outlined in the new CSP [Corporate Strategic Plan] will dramatically improve taxpayers experience, making it easy for individuals and businesses alike to comply with their tax obligations. At the same time it will also enhance transparency and accountability, thereby fostering public trust in our institutions.”
Expressing their determination to deliver diligently and professionally, CG Darboe said: “We are committed to equipping our personnel with the necessary skills and tools to navigate their landscape, ensuring that our workforce is both capable and resilient in the face of our change.”
Recognising that their success hinges on collaboration, he implores all: “Therefore, we invite all of you government agencies, private sector representatives, civil society organizations and international partners-to join us in this transformative journey. Your partnership and support are pivotal in achieving the ambitious goals set forth in this strategic plan.”
