The office of the President, Lira City today (28/10/2024) hosted a commendatory visit from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), where the Assistant Commissioner, James Odongo, and a delegation of URA officials praised the local business community for their commitment to tax compliance. The delegation was warmly received by Assistant Resident City Commissioners (ARCC), Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele, and Bonny Otucu, who represented RCC Larry Emmy Egole.
During the gathering, Alele underscored the significance of providing a fair and equitable business environment to promote growth and ensure sustainable revenue collection. He highlighted the values of patriotism and anti-corruption as essential tools in supporting Uganda’s ambitious revenue target of UGX 32 trillion. He urged the URA to continue creating an atmosphere that encourages businesses to thrive while supporting compliance efforts.
“The President of Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has done all it takes for businesses to flourish. All we need to do is pay taxes to improve social services for our country,” said Okello Alele, commending President Museveni’s ongoing dedication to fostering a thriving business climate. This support, he noted, has created a conducive environment for businesses, empowering them to operate effectively and contribute to Uganda’s development through tax compliance.
Commissioner Otucu echoed Alele’s sentiments and emphasized the need for a collaborative approach in revenue collection, fostering unity among URA officials, local authorities, and the business community. He also called upon the business leaders present to continue upholding the culture of tax compliance as a civic responsibility and a pathway to greater economic stability.
The meeting was attended by several key figures, including URA Lira Station Manager, Madam Immaculate, Business Development Officer Patrick Ouni of the Lira Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Pakistani Business Community in Lira, Mr. Atik, and URA officials from Kampala. Each of these stakeholders play a vital role in supporting the business ecosystem in Lira City and ensuring the region’s continued economic progress.
The URA’s recognition of Lira City’s business community serves as a reminder of the transformative impact of tax compliance on national development. With collaborative efforts and sustained dedication, the URA and Lira’s business leaders are paving the way towards a prosperous future for Uganda.