RRA awards best tax-payers in Karongi

WESTERN PROVINCE The Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) has commended the best tax payers in Karongi district. The tax payers were issued with certificates. They were handed over by the Minister of Internal Security Sheik Musa Fazil Harerimana at Gatwaro stadium recently. “The only step we have reached as Rwanda is being able to feed ourselves but other things we still wait for aid from outside yet we would be capable of getting them from taxes that we pay,” the minister said at the function. Gisovu Tea Factory emerged as the best tax payer and it would be awarded during the 12th anniversary of Rwanda Revenue Authority slated for July 12. Other best tax payers in the area included; Kibuye Hospital, Morrioh Hill Resort, and other individual personalities. The minister urged residents against evading taxes, saying the strength or the weakness of the country depends on revenue collection and allocation. “To you who haven’t yet reached the level of paying taxes, use your eyes and other senses to report any injustices that hinder money from reaching Rwanda Revenue Authority,” he said. He cited corruption especially on the roads and misplacement of funds, among other vices. Harerimana highlighted the advantages of tax payment that ranged from health, paying money in institutions plus minimizing on the costs of expenses each citizen would pay on specific goods. He revealed that the government spends over Frw13 million to supplement the cost of petrol without which a litre would go for Frw1700 which would be hard for everyone to afford. “It’s great to be marking ten years of tax payment,” said Marry Baine the commissioner general of RRA. Stressing that taxes are the ‘heart of the country’ Baine urged all tax payers to always ensure timely payment of their tax obligation, ‘without waiting to be compelled or even arrested’. “People who pay less taxes compared to what they are meant to pay should stop it,” Gerald Nsenga the head of tax payers in Western Province said. Present was Karongi Mayor, Bernard Kayumba, and other area local leaders. Ends