By Maimunia Bojang
The Government of the Gambia through the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs (MOFEA) has increased the annual revenue target from D15 billion in 2023 to D19 billion in 2024.
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) under the leadership of Commissioner General Mr. YankubaDarboe has been tasked to collect the increased revenue target of (D19Billion) for 2024.
This was disclosed during GRA’s senior staff meeting with its board members who made a surprise visit at GRA headquarters in Banjul.
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner Darboe said the increase in annual revenue target has shown that GRA has been relatively performing well in revenue collection over the years.
‘’This also signals that GRA staff need to and must double up efforts by tightening up their belt to live up to expectation,’’ he said.
Mr. Darboe further expressed optimism and proudly stated that GRA would surely achieve its annual revenue target of D15,208 billion for 2023. The GRA boss did not disclose how much revenue has been generated from the first January today, but he was quick to add: ‘’Come end December, come rain, come sunshine or whatever GRA will surpass its revenue target for 2023 by the grace of Almighty God.’’
Mr. Darboe seized the opportunity to advise the senior staff on the challenge that lies ahead and the need for all GRA staff to double up on their efforts. ‘’We should show more commitment and dedication knowing the fact that GRA will not let the government down as far as revenue collection is concerned.’’ He also called on his staff to continue the team spirit, cooperation, and commitment that GRA is known for then the sky is the limit.
“As management and board of GRA, we will do every humanly possible to support GRA staff to enable them effectively and efficiently deliver up to expectation”.
For her part, the Board Chair Madam Lucy Faye Jagnecommended the staff and Management of GRA particularly the leadership for living up to expectations every year in terms the revenue collection. She says the target given to GRA is the trust and commitment of GRA towards national development.
She further urged them to continue working towards supporting each other and learn more about the revenue laws, and other services governing GRA.
Meanwhile, GRA board members and senior management are expected to embark on a nationwide tour of all GRA outlets post station, the objective is to visit their staff at various stations interact with them, and get first-hand information, on their challenges among others.
The delegation will be led by the GRA Board Chair Madam Lucy Faye, and accompanied by the Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe, and Deputy Commissioner General and head of domestic taxes Mr. Essa Jallow among other directors.