Uakutura Kambaekua
Residents of Opuwo and its environs will no longer have to drive great distances to receive good standing certificates, register for tax, or submit their tax returns.
This follows the recent opening of a satellite office in the town by the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA). This is NamRA’s second office in the region, supplementing the one previously established in Khorixas.
Opuwo Mayor Rosa Mbinge-Tjeundo welcomed the opening of the revenue office, describing it a milestone.
“Our residents now have an office of their own, right here in Opuwo, where they can file their tax returns, seek information on tax and customs matters, and address various concerns related to NamRA’s operations. No longer will our people have to embark on long and arduous journeys to access these essential services, which were previously available only in Khorixas and Otjiwarongo,” she pointed out.
Mbinge-Tjeundo said understanding and carrying out of tax commitments is not only a civic duty, but also adds considerably to the development of the region.
She commended NamRA for its tax amnesty programme, which will run for 18 months and provide much-needed relief to individual taxpayers and companies with unpaid taxes.
“It reflects a commitment to fairness and a willingness to support taxpayers during challenging times. Let us make use of this period before it lapses,”she urged the residents of the town.
The Mayor said the decentralisation of public institutions, such as NamRA’s Satellite Office, has significance towards the town’s development, adding that it opens the door to increased investor interest, which translates into more job opportunities, particularly for young people.
“This is completely consistent with our vision of fostering growth, prosperity, and a brighter future for Opuwo,” she added.
At the same event, Kunene Governor Marius Sheya remarked that NamRA’s revenues support the government in fulfilling its duty of supporting both social and economic growth of the country and that NamRA is one of the most effective government institutions.
Sheya also stated that it is the responsibility of everyone to give their fair amount, and that failure to do so will harm society’s most vulnerable members.
The Governor also urged NamRA to increase taxpayer education and accessibility through multiple avenues.