ZIMBABWE’S domestic resource mobilisation agenda has received a major boost as tax collections have, with immediate effect, gone digital to improve efficiency, reduce costs, save time, and plug leakages.

The move reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to modernise operations in line with global trends.

“This is a step in the right direction. If you follow global trends, then it is inevitable that most of the economies are adapting to such noble standards that seek to enhance transparency. This trend will benefit the industry in terms of bottlenecks involved in the payment of taxes,” ZB Bank’s Chief Executive Officer-Banking, Mr Elisha Chibvuri said.

Principal at the Africa Centre for Customs, Excise and Trade Studies, Mr Elisha Tshuma, highlighted the long-term benefits of such a system.

“Zimbabwe is forging ahead with development projects that have translated into the current growth mode being funded locally. Coming up with a system that eases the cost of transactions for the taxpayer means saving time and encouraging the culture of paying taxes, a norm in all the globally advanced economies. It is my hope that the trend will positively affect tax payment systems across the board.”

ZIMRA’s Chairperson, Mr Anthony Mandiwanza, spoke on the importance of the latest Tax and Revenue Management System (TARMS).

“Over 90 percent of government programmes are funded through ZIMRA collections. Enhancing transparency and broadening the tax base through TARMS will not only improve revenue inflows but also support sustainable economic growth. This system is a critical enabler for the country’s broader development agenda.”

The Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Honourable Kudakwashe Mnangagwa, said the government is expecting digital tax payment methods to strengthen the domestic revenue mobilisation agenda.

“With this system, one can now access real-time tax data without physically visiting ZIMRA offices. It aligns with our Mid-Term Budget Review and allows for timely and accurate reporting, aiding policy decisions and enhancing accountability to the public. This is key to achieving our Vision 2030 goals of becoming an upper-middle-income economy.”

Like any economy, Zimbabwe is focusing on raising more revenues to sustain ongoing development projects by facilitating efficiency.