Unlock Sustainable Growth Through Revenue Mobilization: 10 Key Sessions from the ATAF Annual Meetings
This congregation of tax experts offered insights that will contribute to the sustainable growth of Africa through effective revenue mobilisation.
CAPE TOWN, South Africa — The picturesque city of Cape Town played host to the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) Annual Meetings from October 31 to November 2, 2023, a vital gathering of tax experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the African continent, writes Winston Mwale.
With the theme "Africa Rising: Sustainable Growth through Revenue Mobilisation," this year's meetings offered a platform for informed dialogue and collaboration, shedding light on key issues that are critical for Africa's economic development.
The event was a three-day affair during which ten insightful sessions unfolded, each contributing to a tapestry of ideas, strategies, and knowledge-sharing.
These sessions tackled a wide array of topics, offering invaluable insights and addressing crucial matters:
Session 1: Building Resilience Through Domestic Revenue Mobilisation
Presented by Taiwo Oyedele – Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Nigeria
The first session set the tone for the meetings, delving into the role of a robust tax system as a shield against global uncertainties.
It underscored the notion that a well-structured tax system lays the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
Session 2: Addressing Africa’s Financing Gap: Strengthening Africa’s Institutional Capacity for DRM
Presented by Mary Baine – Deputy Executive Secretary; ATAF
The second session ventured into strategies for building agile and robust institutions capable of effectively implementing Domestic Revenue Mobilisation (DRM) strategies.
A central point of discussion revolved around enhancing the knowledge and skills of tax administrators to ensure efficient and effective tax collection.
Session 3: From Shadows to Spotlight: Transparency as a Deterrent for IFFs
Presented by Thulani Shongwe – Manager: International Tax; ATAF
The third session shone a light on the importance of transparency in curbing Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs). Open data, information sharing, and transparency in financial and corporate reporting took centre stage in the discussion.
Session 4: Incentives and Investment: Navigating Tax Breaks for Foreign Direct Investment
Presented by Manuela Francisco – Global Director: Macroeconomics, Trade & Investment, World Bank Group
Session four brought forth a delicate balancing act – the use of tax incentives to attract foreign investment while managing their effects on domestic revenue generation.
Experts also dived into the impending global tax rules, prompting discussions on the need for broader tax incentive reforms.
Session 5: Harnessing Data Analytics: A Game-Changer for Revenue Mobilisation
Presented by Godfrey Mbizo – Data Analytics Expert, and AO Lixin – Deputy Commissioner of the State Taxation Administration of the People’s Republic of China
This session unveiled the pivotal role of data analytics in enhancing revenue mobilisation and combatting IFFs. Experts emphasized the potential of data-driven decision-making in unlocking sustainable economic growth across Africa.
Session 6: Evolving Tax Policies for the Digital Age: VAT Compliance in Cross-Border Supplies in the Digital Economy
Presented by Emeka Nwankwo – Manager Domestic Tax; ATAF
Session six focused on the ever-evolving digital economy, discussing the challenges and opportunities it presents.
The session emphasized the need for VAT policies and administration to adapt to capture potential revenue effectively.
Moreover, it marked the launch of the VAT Digital Toolkit for Africa, designed to equip nations with the necessary tools to navigate the digital landscape.
Session 7: Digital Financial Assets: Challenges and Opportunities
Presented by Jason Piper – Head of Tax and Business Law, Professional Insights, ACCA
In the seventh session, experts explored the rapidly evolving world of digital financial assets, examining available policy options for African nations. Additionally, they discussed potential risks and mitigation strategies in the face of this digital evolution.
Session 8: Mobilising Revenue from the Green Economy
Presented by Sharlin Hemraj – Director, Environmental and Fuel Taxes Directorate, National Treasury, South Africa
The eighth session delved into the "green revolution," scrutinizing how Africa can harness eco-friendly practices to generate domestic revenues. The focus was on sustainable and environmentally conscious approaches to economic growth.
Session 9: Strengthening International Cooperation: A United Front Against IFFs
Presented by Patrick Olomo – Acting Head: Economic Policy and Sustainable Development Division; AUC
In session nine, the spotlight turned to international cooperation. The importance of regional and global collaboration in combating Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) took centre stage.
Experts explored shared strategies, cooperation agreements, and multilateral initiatives to thwart IFFs effectively.
Session 10: Looking Ahead: Predicting and Preparing for Future Challenges in Curbing IFFs
Presented by Ian Mwinga – Head: Zambia EITI
The final session focused on the challenges posed by IFFs in Africa's resource-rich sectors. In this concluding chapter, experts discussed strategies for increasing transparency, improving governance, and ensuring fair taxation within the extractive industries.
The ATAF Annual Meetings provided a dynamic platform for engaging discussions, networking, and the exchange of vital information.
This congregation of tax experts offered insights that will contribute to the sustainable growth of Africa through effective revenue mobilisation.