By: Saidu Jalloh
The Taskforce on Domestic Revenue Mobilisation, established by the Minister of Finance, Ahmed Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, has officially commenced its work, holding its inaugural meeting on Thursday, February 27, at the Ministry of Finance building on George Street.
The Taskforce has been mandated to strengthen tax systems, enhance transparency, and propose strategic interventions to boost government revenue collection.
Chaired by Deputy Minister of Finance Bockarie Kalokoh, the Taskforce comprises key government officials, including Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) Madam Jeneba Bangura, the Financial Secretary, and senior staff of both the Ministry of Finance and the NRA. It also includes representatives from civil society organizations, notably the Budget Advocacy Network (BAN) and the Centre for Accountability and the Rule of Law (CARL), reflecting a commitment to transparency and inclusivity in tax administration.
A key aspect of the Taskforce’s mandate is to provide technical facilitation for implementing the Medium-Term Revenue Strategy and the Finance Act in alignment with the government’s broader economic vision. The team will also review the revenue collection process, audit existing systems, identify challenges, and recommend policy measures to improve efficiency, sustainability, and integrity in tax administration.
Speaking at the maiden meeting, Chairman Bockarie Kalokoh emphasised the critical role of the Taskforce in reversing the challenges facing domestic revenue mobilisation and ensuring that the state maximises its revenue potential. He clarified that the Taskforce is not intended to undermine the authority of the NRA but rather to complement its efforts in boosting revenue collection for national development.
The Chairman of the NRA Board, Kabineh Kallon, welcomed the formation of the Taskforce and assured the board’s support for its work.
Ibrahim Tommy, Executive Director of CARL, commended the Ministry of Finance for including civil society organizations in the Taskforce. He highlighted CARL and BAN’s longstanding engagement in tax and economic policy matters and expressed keen interest in the Taskforce’s recommendations.
The Taskforce is expected to meet weekly to assess progress and submit strategic and technical recommendations aimed at improving domestic revenue mobilisation and strengthening the country’s tax systems.
