Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has called on African nations to strengthen their tax systems as a sustainable path to financing development and reducing reliance on foreign aid.
Delivering the Keynote address at the 7th High-Level Policy Dialogue and 21st General Assembly of the West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF), held at the Foreign Service Academy, Tower Hill, Freetown.
Dr. Jalloh noted that COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine have exposed the vulnerability of African economies. “There is no better time than now to look inward and mobilize resources for our own progress,” he stressed.
Furthermore, Vice President Jalloh highlighted that taxation is more than figures on paper, describing it as the foundation for schools, hospitals, and better livelihoods.
He explained that, strong and transparent tax systems not only reduce leakages but also build trust and accountability between governments and citizens.
“If our revenue capacity is weak, our development will be weak. But with stronger systems, we can turn people’s hopes into progress,” Dr. Jalloh emphasized.
He further stated the importance of digitalization, legal reforms, and regional cooperation in broadening Africa’s tax base without overburdening citizens.
He urged African states to share experiences, learn from one another, and replicate best practices across borders.
Finally, he expressed confidence that WATAF would continue to provide a platform for building fairer and stronger economies in West Africa.He welcomed WATAF delegates “back home” to Freetown and expressed optimism that their discussions would shape growth-oriented and development-driven tax systems.
The dialogue ended with renewed optimism that West Africa can build fairer, stronger, and more resilient tax systems to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development across the region.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
