Understand the importance of paying taxes first

Dear editor, The recent tax payer’s day in Rwamgana revealed a lot that is desired in the process of collecting taxes. On the positive note the region (eastern region) collected more taxes than it had earlier anticipated. But the governor expressed a desire to have it increased citing the overall low ratios. But what I see as lacking is awareness. People should know how to collect and why they pay the taxes in the first place, before we think of increasing tax collection. Though there have been some efforts, there still remains big gaps. We the people, through our elected representatives, should get together and spend money on development projects. That is when we shall know that the money we spend has to be paid, sooner or later, through taxes. That some of this money is invested in things we hope will pay off in the future will not be questioned. To restore to taxpayers awareness of the true cost of government is of great importance as far increasing tax collection is concerned. RWAMAGANA

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Understand the importance of paying taxes first