In a continued effort to modernize tax administration and enhance compliance among producers of excisable goods, the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), in partnership with SICPA Tanzania, has commenced a nationwide training program focusing on the newly introduced Smart DAS (Huisha Kidijitali) mobile application. The initiative is part of the broader strategy to simplify the Electronic Tax Stamp (ETS) declaration process, reduce human error, and improve efficiency for both taxpayers and regulators.
The Smart DAS app, now available on Android and iOS platforms, offers a streamlined solution for taxpayers. Instead of manually entering stamp serial numbers—a process that was time-consuming and prone to errors—producers can now simply scan the first and last stamp used in a batch. The application automatically captures the necessary data and submits it directly to TRA’s central system, greatly reducing declaration time and improving accuracy in reporting.
“This application is a direct response to the needs of our taxpayers,” said Mr. Abyud Tweve, ETS Project Manager from TRA Headquarters’ Domestic Revenue Department. “We listened to their challenges and responded with a practical, easy-to-use solution that not only simplifies compliance but also enhances our own ability to manage and verify production data in real-time.”
To ensure the effective rollout of the app, TRA recently hosted a comprehensive training session in Dar es Salaam, bringing together 92 officers from across the country. The officers, who oversee the ETS and Electronic Fiscal Device (EFD) sections in their respective regions, were given practical demonstrations on the use of the Smart DAS app and how it integrates with existing tax compliance tools.
During the training, officers also participated in workshops where key action points were agreed upon—including the need for a cascade training model. Each officer is now expected to conduct regional-level taxpayer workshops to ensure all producers are familiar with the new system and can adopt it with minimal disruption to their operations.
“The success of Smart DAS depends on awareness and accessibility,” added Mr. Tweve. “Our officers are now fully equipped to guide taxpayers, address concerns, and ensure that every user understands the advantages of going digital.”
As part of the initiative, SICPA Tanzania has supplied an additional 5,000 validator cards to TRA. These cards, which feature two windows that demonstrate the polarization effect of high security inks in legitimate electronic tax stamps, are being distributed to wholesalers, distributors, and other players in the excise goods supply chain, reinforcing stakeholder engagement. The validator cards allow users to easily verify stamp authenticity before accepting goods into their custody.
“SICPA Tanzania is proud to partner with TRA in deploying secure and innovative tools to protect government revenues and promote fair trade,” said Alfred Mapunda, SICPA Tanzania General Manager. “The validator cards and Smart DAS solution are part of our continued commitment to support Tanzania’s journey toward smarter, more transparent tax administration.”
By combining technology with training, this partnership represents a significant leap forward in the government’s efforts to secure the excise tax ecosystem and revenue stream. The initiative not only addresses compliance gaps but also empowers businesses with user-friendly tools that encourage voluntary compliance.
With digital transformation taking center stage in revenue administrations across Africa, Tanzania is demonstrating regional leadership through practical innovations that respond to the needs of both government and private sector stakeholders together with other East Africa Community countries such as Kenya and Uganda. TRA’ Smart DAS system and its supporting infrastructure—including training, validator cards, and nationwide engagement—highlight a model of public-private cooperation that is both impactful and scalable.
Media Communications
Richard Kayombo,
Director of Taxpayer Education and Communications,
Tanzania Revenue Authority.
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