Debmarine Namibia’s tax contribution to the government amounted to N$4.2 billion last year, a huge amount that resulted in the diamond company scooping five awards and N$20,000 in cash to be donated to any charity organisation.
The accolades were presented at Namibia Revenue Agency’s (NamRA) second edition of Taxpayers/Trade appreciation day on Wednesday. The event is meant to recognise most compliant individuals and companies.
Debmarine emerged as the overall contributor in domestic taxes, while the Belgian beer giant, Anheuser-Busch InBev, was awarded as the highest contributor in Custom and Excise, and also received N$20,000 as a token of appreciation. First National Bank and Bank Windhoek came in 1st and 2nd runner-up in the domestic tax category.
Debmarine was further awarded as the highest contributor to employee taxes, corporate tax, value-added tax and non-resident shareholder tax.
Thirty-five more companies were awarded across the country, including Multichoice which won as the highest contributor on royalties.
“It is very important for us to comply, as we are about making life brilliant. Therefore this achievement goes out to the employees who are tirelessly working 24/7 around the clock and far away from their families, you are highly appreciated for your endless efforts. This is also very important, because it indicates our stance to contribute to the country’s economy so that basic services and infrastructures can be available to the public,” said Debmarine CEO Willy Mertens.
Meanwhile, Multichoice Managing Director Roger Gertze said “the award is a validation of what we have been saying that Multichoice enriches lives, therefore making sure we provide value to our customers and wellbeing of all Namibians”.
He further added that paying taxes is a responsibility that the company cannot evade, because failing to do so will mean an average Namibian will not be able to afford basic healthcare services, education, water and electricity, among others.
