WATAF seeks stronger media partnership for tax transparency
The West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) has called for closer cooperation between the media and tax authorities across Africa. Press freedom the organisation said remains vital to improving tax
The West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) has called for closer cooperation between the media and tax authorities across Africa.
Press freedom the organisation said remains vital to improving tax compliance, strengthening transparency and supporting sustainable development on the continent.
In a statement issued to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, the Executive Secretary of WATAF, Jules Tapsoba, said a free and independent media plays a major role in building accountable tax systems and increasing public trust in government institutions.
According to him, accurate and responsible journalism helps citizens understand tax policies and public finance issues, while also ensuring that institutions remain accountable to the people.
“A free and responsible press is indispensable to transparent tax systems. By informing citizens and holding institutions accountable, the media strengthens trust, improves compliance, and supports sustainable domestic revenue mobilisation,” Tapsoba said.
WATAF explained that many African countries are placing greater attention on domestic revenue generation as governments seek sustainable ways to finance development projects and reduce dependence on external borrowing and aid.
The organisation noted that citizens are more willing to comply with tax obligations when they have confidence in public institutions and access to reliable information about how government revenues are managed.
According to the Forum, professional reporting on tax administration, public finance and governance also helps in tackling tax evasion, illicit financial flows and corruption, which continue to affect revenue generation across many African countries.
WATAF commended journalists and media organisations across the continent for maintaining professionalism and accuracy in their work despite difficult operating conditions.
It stated that media coverage of tax matters and public finance issues continues to strengthen accountability and democratic governance in many African countries.
The Forum also urged revenue authorities to adopt more transparent and media-friendly communication strategies, describing journalists as important partners in taxpayer education and public engagement.
According to WATAF, stronger collaboration between tax agencies and the media would improve public understanding of tax reforms, increase voluntary compliance and support national development goals.
The organisation maintained that as African countries continue to reform their tax systems and strengthen institutions, protecting press freedom must remain a priority.
WATAF said an independent media remains essential for promoting accountability, deepening trust between governments and citizens and encouraging inclusive economic growth across the continent.
The Forum also restated its commitment to promoting transparency, knowledge sharing and stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including the media, in efforts to build credible and resilient tax systems in West Africa and across Africa.
