TRA AND SICPA USE TECHNOLOGY TO DRIVE TRANSPARENCY, CONSUMER SAFETY, AND TAX COMPLIANCE

By Our Reporter – Dar es Salaam
Published: July 4, 2025

In a bold step toward promoting transparency, consumer protection, and inclusive economic growth, the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), in collaboration with SICPA Tanzania, is actively engaging the public to showcase the transformative power of technology in modern tax administration and market regulation.

The latest outreach effort, featured at the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Sabasaba), is part of TRA’s broader strategy to connect with citizens, enhance tax compliance, and combat the growing threats of counterfeit goods and illicit trade.

Tackling Counterfeits and Protecting the Public

In today’s complex marketplace, Tanzanians face increasing exposure to counterfeit products and unfair trade practices that jeopardize not just health and safety, but also the integrity of the national economy.

“The technologies we have introduced are designed not only to improve compliance among manufacturers but to protect and empower the general public,” said Mr. Abyud Tweve, ETS Project Manager at TRA.

Empowering Consumers Through Innovation

TRA's participation at Sabasaba offers an interactive platform where the public can:

• Learn how to identify genuine products using the Electronic Tax Stamp (ETS) system.
• Use the Hakiki Stempu App, a simple smartphone tool that enables users to instantly authenticate excisable goods such as alcohol, soft drinks, and cigarettes.
• Understand how taxes directly impact national development, linking verified purchases and tax collection to the funding of schools, hospitals, roads, and other public services.

These tools are part of TRA’s mission to make tax compliance and consumer safety real and relevant to everyday Tanzanians.

A Public-Private Partnership for National Prosperity

Mr. Alfred Mapunda, General Manager of SICPA Tanzania, highlighted the strength of collaboration in this initiative:

“When technology is combined with public awareness, it becomes a powerful force for good. Through our partnership with TRA, we aim to ensure that every Tanzanian understands how to use these tools to make safer choices, support transparency, and create a level playing field.”

Building a Culture of Compliance

TRA’s approach reflects a shift toward shared responsibility, where citizens, businesses, and institutions work together to build a resilient and equitable economy. Events like Sabasaba provide an ideal space for these conversations to happen directly and impactfully.

“Our participation in national and international events like Sabasaba gives us an important opportunity to have direct conversations with citizens — to show them how they can contribute to fair trade, protect their families, and support the growth of our nation,” said Mr. Tweve.

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📲 Visit TRA’s booth at Sabasaba or download the Hakiki Stempu App on the Play Store or App Store today.
👥 Join the movement for fairness, safety, and national development — one product scan at a time.

📰 For more stories on innovation, transparency, and responsible economic development, keep visiting our blog. We bring you impactful updates that matter.

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