MWANZA Regional Commissioner Said Mtanda has urged all traders in the region to make full use of the newly launched business facilitation desk by submitting the challenges they face in their daily operations.

The initiative is designed to ensure that traders can run their businesses efficiently, address bottlenecks, and maximize productivity. Mtanda made the remarks yesterday during the official launch of the desk in Mwanza city, which is part of a wider government initiative aimed at promoting national development and economic empowerment.

Mtanda emphasized that the business facilitation desk is a critical tool for supporting traders and improving ease of doing business. 

He further urged Mwanza Regional Manager for Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to expand the service to all districts within the region to ensure that no trader is left behind, regardless of location.

“The desk is designed to empower traders by providing a platform to communicate directly with authorities, enabling challenges to be resolved promptly. This will enhance productivity and create a more favourable business environment,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of paying taxes, reminding traders that Tanzania’s economic growth depends heavily on citizens’ commitment to contribute. “Tax matters are a national concern. The government cannot function without revenue. The development projects we witness today such as the recently inaugurated Kigongo-Busisi Bridge are direct outcomes of taxes paid by citizens,” he explained.

Mtanda further emphasized that every Tanzanian should pay taxes proportionate to their income: “Those earning 20,000/- should pay, those earning 100,000/- should pay, and those earning millions should also contribute. This is how we will build our nation with solidarity and accountability.”

Mwanza Region has been highlighted as one of the country’s top performers in domestic revenue collection, currently contributing 7.2 percent of national revenue and ranking second in economic productivity. The RC noted that trade is the primary contributor to Mwanza’s economy, as the region’s economy is not heavily reliant on agriculture, making it essential to strengthen the business sector further.

“Through this desk, traders will be empowered to address obstacles in their operations directly with authorities. This platform will also help identify systemic issues and provide solutions for both small and large-scale traders,” he said.

Mwanza TRA Manager Faustine Mdesa explained that the desk aligns with the government’s directives to enhance working relationships between TRA and taxpayers by encouraging voluntary compliance. He highlighted that the desk is not primarily about tax collection but serves as a channel for providing support, guidance and practical solutions to traders.

Speaking on behalf of Mwanza traders, Jacob Paul described the desk as a blessing. “We have faced numerous challenges without a proper platform to report them. Now we have an official channel to receive assistance, and we pledge to make full use of it,” he said.

The launch of the desk is expected to significantly improve business environment in Mwanza, supporting economic growth, creating employment opportunities and ensuring that traders’ voices are heard in policymaking and service delivery.