URA crowns Coca-Cola, Chop Gaming as top taxpayers

By John Baptist Ahumuza

Kampala: Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda Ltd has been named as the top taxpayer, while Chop Gaming Ltd., a company that trades as BetPawa in Uganda, scooped the runners-up at the Excel Award during the Taxpayers Appreciation Awards ceremony organized by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) in Nakawa-Kampala.

While officiating at the ceremony on Thursday, the Prime Minister of Uganda, Robina Nabbanja, appreciated the companies that have been awarded and also pledged support from the government in ensuring the revenue collected is properly utilized.

She tasked URA to carry on their responsibility with due diligence by ensuring the taxpayers understand how their money is being used.

“I urge the staff and management of URA to live by what you have exhibited to us during this season. Your selflessness in service does not end with holding events; it also shows the service-related approach in all you do,” said Nabanja.

The Finance Minister, Matia Kasaija, appealed to the general public to contribute to the economic growth of the country by paying their respective taxes. He, however, decried the persistent economic huddles that have for years shaken up the country.

“The government acknowledges the current economic hardships that have persisted over the years, but I am happy to know that in the midst of the economic distresses, you, our economic heroes, have helped to sustain the economy through your continuous tax contributions,” said Kasaija.

The Commissioner General of the URA, John Musinguzi Rujoki, said that the authority is addressing the few existing loopholes in tax compliance through a number of strategies, such as educating taxpayers, improving technology, and also equipping their personnel.

Shortly, ChopGaming Director Allan Tumushabe said that they are excited about the new trend set in the industry.

“This prestigious recognition is a testament to the outstanding contribution made by our company in the field of revenue mobilization and youth empowerment in Uganda. This reminds us of our civic obligation towards economic growth and puts a brick in the development of Uganda,” said Allan.

The Taxpayer Appreciation Season (TPAS) is an initiative by URA aimed at promoting service excellence and recognizing compliant taxpayers for their significant role in revenue mobilization.

This year, 22 companies across the country have been awarded excellent awards by the Uganda Revenue Authority as the most compliant taxpayers.

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