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In a historic moment at the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) 2nd General Meeting, Executive Secretary Logan Wort delivered what could be his final address, reflecting on his remarkable 15-year tenure at the helm of ATAF.
Addressing tax leaders, development partners, and dignitaries, Wort highlighted the Forum’s achievements while emphasizing the critical challenges and opportunities ahead for Africa’s tax landscape.
“It gives me absolute pleasure to welcome you all to our Annual General Meeting, hosted by the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA),” Wort began. He commended the RRA for its unwavering support and pioneering leadership in tax administration, particularly in the adoption of innovative solutions such as electronic invoicing systems.
Reflecting on ATAF’s journey since its inception, Wort expressed pride in its evolution into a leading African tax organization and a global voice in tax administration. “Despite the challenges of establishing a new organization, the journey has been immensely fulfilling. Today, ATAF is a global player in the tax dialogue,” he noted.
The meeting’s theme, “Preparing for the Future: Revenue Administration in a Dynamic Global Landscape,” provided a platform for participants to discuss strategies to address pressing issues, including Africa’s financing gaps, debt crises, geopolitical conflicts, and the need for inclusive and equitable tax systems.
Wort emphasized, “The continent faces a significant financing gap to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063. Addressing these gaps requires embracing technology, combating illicit financial flows, and promoting intra-African investment.”
Wort highlighted key areas for transformation:
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Leveraging Technology: He noted the success stories of RRA and South African Revenue Services (SARS), which have reported significant revenue gains through digitalization. “Digital transformation enhances transparency, fairness, and compliance,” he said.
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Tax Transparency and Exchange of Information: Wort celebrated the outcomes of ATAF’s inaugural Exchange of Information Conference and called for greater political commitment to implementing exchange of information (EOI) frameworks.
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Equitable Allocation of Taxing Rights: He advocated for Africa’s continued leadership in shaping a fair global tax regime, supporting efforts at the United Nations to develop a Framework Convention for International Tax Cooperation.
As Wort prepares to hand over leadership, he urged members and partners to remain steadfast in their support for ATAF’s mission. “ATAF stands firm in advocating Africa’s voice on the global stage, influencing tax policy design, and providing technical assistance and training to our members,” he said.
He concluded by wishing the incoming Executive Secretary success and expressing confidence in ATAF’s future. “Together, we will continue to thrive, delivering on Africa’s vision for sustainable socio-economic development,” he affirmed.
The ATAF 2nd General Meeting continues this week, with deliberations on innovative tax strategies and side events aimed at strengthening Africa’s tax systems.
