By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter
Algiers, Algeria — The Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Yankuba Darboe, has underscored the vital role of third-party data in shaping the future of efficient and transparent tax administration across Africa.
Speaking on Wednesday at a high-level panel during the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) Annual General Meeting in Algiers, Darboe described data as both “the lifeblood of compliance management” and “the new gold” of modern revenue collection systems.
He emphasized that by integrating data from external sources, revenue bodies can gain a comprehensive understanding of taxpayer activities, which is crucial for identifying non-compliance, reducing the tax gap, and promoting fairness within the system.
Drawing on The Gambia’s ongoing digital transformation, the GRA boss revealed how the institution has successfully harnessed third-party information to improve revenue performance. However, he also pointed to challenges that accompany such advancements — particularly issues of data privacy and ethical use.
“The goal is to find the right balance,” Darboe said, stressing the importance of restricting data sharing to information that directly supports revenue collection, while protecting citizens’ privacy.
In this regard, Darboe noted that the GRA has already signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with key government institutions and stakeholders to facilitate controlled data exchange. He further highlighted that the newly enacted Data Privacy and Protection Act provides a strong legal framework to ensure that these processes remain secure and accountable.
His remarks struck a chord with fellow tax administrators from across the continent, many of whom are navigating similar issues as they strive to boost domestic resource mobilization. Darboe’s message — that smart data use and respect for privacy can coexist — resonated as a guiding principle for sustainable reform.
The ATAF meeting continues through the week, bringing together delegates and policymakers to share insights and innovative strategies aimed at strengthening Africa’s tax systems in an increasingly data-driven world.
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