Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Namibia has recorded the highest tax-to-GDP ratio on the continent for the second year in a row, according to data from the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF).
This was revealed by Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) commissioner and ATAF vice chairperson Sam Shivute during a panel discussion at the ATAF Heads of Tax Administrations Leadership Masterclass, which is taking place this week in Rabat, Morocco.
Shivute said the country’s performance results from a series of domestic reforms and strategic interventions undertaken in recent years.
During the panel session titled ‘Embracing Collaboration and Enhanced Transparency for Domestic Resource Mobilisation’, he explained that the country’s approach has included measures to improve compliance, expand the tax base, and strengthen transparency.
“The topics on our agenda, from tax base expansion to tax transparency, are not abstract. They are practical levers for change. They require us to act as leaders who inspire teams, innovate boldly and foster trust among our citizens and partners,” Shivute said.
He also used the opportunity to encourage stronger collaboration among African tax administrators and urged ATAF to continue supporting member states.
“We must use this Masterclass not only as a platform for knowledge exchange but also as a means of shaping the future direction of ATAF, to ensure it remains a beacon of excellence in African tax policy and administration,” he said.
NamRA has been working with ATAF as one of its strategic development partners.
According to Shivute, ATAF has provided technical support to Namibia across various tax administration areas, contributing to the country’s performance.
The ATAF Heads of Tax Administrations Leadership Masterclass is a high-level event jointly hosted by ATAF and the Directorate of Taxes of the Kingdom of Morocco.
It brings together 23 heads of tax administrations from across the continent.
The event focuses on strengthening leadership and governance within tax institutions and serves as a platform for tax administrators to share experiences and best practices.
