Africa: WATAF Calls for Stronger Media Collaboration to Advance Tax Transparency

The West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) has urged deeper collaboration between the media and tax authorities across Africa, highlighting the critical role of press freedom in strengthening transparency, accountability, and tax compliance.

In a statement marking World Press Freedom Day, Executive Secretary Jules Tapsoba emphasised that an independent and responsible media is essential to building credible tax systems and fostering public trust in government institutions.

According to Tapsoba, accurate and balanced reporting enables citizens to better understand tax policies and public finance, while also ensuring that institutions remain accountable.

“A free and responsible press is indispensable to transparent tax systems. By informing citizens and holding institutions accountable, the media strengthens trust, improves compliance, and supports sustainable domestic revenue mobilisation,” he said.

Media as a Driver of Tax Compliance

WATAF noted that as African countries intensify efforts to boost domestic revenue mobilisation, public confidence and access to reliable information have become key drivers of voluntary tax compliance.

The organisation stressed that informed citizens are more likely to meet their tax obligations when they understand how revenues are generated and utilised.

It added that professional journalism plays a crucial role in addressing systemic challenges such as tax evasion, illicit financial flows, and corruption—issues that continue to constrain revenue generation across the continent.

Strengthening Partnerships for Development

The Forum commended journalists and media organisations for maintaining professionalism despite challenging operating environments, noting that consistent coverage of tax and public finance issues has contributed to improved governance and accountability in many African countries.

WATAF also called on revenue authorities to adopt more transparent and media-friendly communication strategies, positioning journalists as key partners in taxpayer education and public engagement.

Stronger collaboration, it said, would enhance public understanding of tax reforms, encourage voluntary compliance, and support broader development objectives.

Sustaining Transparency and Trust

As African economies continue to reform their tax systems, WATAF reiterated that safeguarding press freedom remains essential to sustaining transparency and trust between governments and citizens.

The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to promoting knowledge sharing, transparency, and multi-stakeholder collaboration in building resilient and credible tax systems across West Africa and the wider continent.