THE Namibia Revenue Agency management is in the Zambezi region to assess the viability of the one-stop border post at the Katima Mulilo border linking Namibia to Zambia.
The visit to the north-eastern part of the country presents an opportunity for the agency to explore ways of improving tax, customs and excise administration in the region, which has several entry points into the country.
Earlier in the week, the Namra team paid a courtesy visit to the Zambezi regional governor, Lawrence Sampofu, who stressed that borders are the mirrors of the country, and service delivery must be top class.
He says the one-stop border post concept being mooted for the Katima Mulilo border post has the potential to enhance trade and reduce time spent clearing goods at entry points.
Agreeing with the governor, the agencys commissioner says they prioritise quality service delivery, which should become evident soon.
Shivute highlights that the recruitment process is in full swing, and staff from the previous Inland Revenue Department and the Directorate of Customs and Excise in the Ministry of Finance will have to be absorbed by Namra. This exercise is expected to conclude by September 2022.
The Namra delegation also met the Zambezi regional police commander, Marius Katamila, who stressed that his office was determined to maintain good relations with its Zambian counterpart, to counter instances of of illegal trade and other crimes taking place at the entry point connecting the two countries.
Shivute says the agency would enhance enforcement to mitigate underdeclaration and the wrongful classification of goods.
He is optimistic that with enhanced and dedicated taxpayer education, the level of voluntary compliance would take a consistent upward trend, aided by greater appreciation of the obligation on taxpayers and traders.
The team further visited the massive cross border project between Botswana and Zambia, which saw the construction of the Kazungula Bridge and the establishment of the one-stop border post on both ends of the border, manned by customs and immigration officials from the two countries.
The revenue agency has operations at Katima Mulilo, Ngoma, Kamenga and Impalila Island.
Email: bottomline@namibian.com.na
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