By Fatou Bojang
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), in partnership with the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs and supported by the World Bank, has intensified efforts to modernise tax administration with the introduction of a new Integrated Tax Administration System (Itas).
The initiative was highlighted during a sensitisation workshop held for taxpayers in the West Coast Region, aimed at raising awareness and encouraging stakeholder participation in the transition to a fully digital tax system.
Samba Sallah, Itas project manager said the new system will significantly improve tax administration and compliance by introducing advanced digital tools.
He noted that although the current system performs well, it lacks the capacity to support modern technologies required for efficient tax operations.
He explained that Itas will provide online services such as e-registration, e-filing and e-payment, allowing taxpayers to meet their obligations remotely.
Sallah emphasised that stakeholders are being involved from the early stages of development to ensure the system reflects national needs.
“We want to build a system that belongs to all Gambians, not just the GRA,” he said, urging participants to actively contribute ideas and feedback during the process.
Ernest Mendy, human resources director of GRA on behalf of the commissioner general, described Itas as a major step toward improving service delivery and transparency in tax administration.
He said the system will enable taxpayers to register, file returns and make payments online, reducing the time and cost associated with compliance while enhancing accountability.
“As taxpayers, you play a critical role in national development by enabling the government to mobilise resources for infrastructure and public services,” he told participants.
Mendy added that the success of Itas will depend on the understanding, cooperation and active participation of taxpayers and other stakeholders.
He further said that the new system is expected to minimise human error, reduce opportunities for fraud and corruption, and create a transparent digital record of transactions.
Officials highlighted that the reform forms part of broader efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation and improve public service delivery.
The workshop also provided a platform for dialogue, with participants encouraged to ask questions and share suggestions to help shape the system.
The Itas rollout is expected to mark a new phase in The Gambia’s tax administration, with authorities expressing confidence that it will enhance efficiency, transparency and voluntary compliance.
