The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) has revealed that its owed N$12 billion in taxes by individuals and corporates, an additional N$36 billion in penalties, with N$8 billion being debt interest accrued.
According to data shared by the revenue collection agency, 107 200 taxpayers owe N$12 billion in taxes, 117 600 owing N$36 billion in penalties and 137 000 having accrued interest to the tune of N$8 billion.
“As at 30 September 2021, the capital amount stood at N$12 billion while the interest amounted to N$8 billion. The highest amount relates to penalties, mainly levied on late payment of tax and late filing of returns,” NamRA’s Chief: Strategic Communications and Support Engagements, Steven Yarukeekuro Ndorokaze said in response to an inquiry by The Brief.
He said of the 887 500 registered tax payers, only 57% were tax compliant, with 381 654 tax payers being non-compliant.
“The 57% compliance rate represents all tax categories ranging from income tax, VAT to withholding tax. In other words, 505,914 does not only represent individuals,” he said.
The Namibia Revenue Agency was established in 2017 to, amongst other functions: Assess and collect taxes and duties on behalf of the States, receive and record all State revenue on behalf of the State, improve service delivery to taxpayers and promote compliance with the revenue laws and advise the Minister of Finance on matters relating to tax administration.
The revenue body was established by the government as part of efforts to increase revenue collection efficiency in the country.
