Dr. Dotto Biteko, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy of Tanzania, has underscored the importance of treating taxpayers as integral partners in the nation's development efforts. Speaking at the Annual Taxpayer Appreciation Award 2023 in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Biteko emphasized that taxpayers play a vital role in providing the necessary resources for the country's growth and development.
"Taxpayers should be treated as partners without which the resources we need to finance growth and development won't be adequate," he noted during the event.
The occasion celebrated outstanding contributions to tax compliance and honored Huawei, which emerged as the most compliant taxpayer in the technology sector and across all sectors at the national level. Huawei's recognition is attributed to its unwavering commitment to adhering to tax regulations.
Huawei's impact in Tanzania extends beyond its tax contributions, particularly in its significant role in advancing technology infrastructure and digital connectivity. Operating in Tanzania for 17 years since 2007, Huawei has been a key player in the country's ICT infrastructure, serving 75 percent of the population.
The awards bestowed upon Huawei reflect the company's meticulous record-keeping and prompt tax payments, highlighting its positive influence on the nation's revenue system. It is expected that this acknowledgment will serve as a benchmark for other businesses in Tanzania, promoting a culture of fiscal responsibility and transparency.
Huawei's success as the most compliant taxpayer in the technology sector and across all sectors at the national level not only demonstrates its adherence to tax regulations but also underscores its role in transforming Tanzania's ICT landscape.
Additionally, Huawei's commitment to corporate social responsibility, including initiatives such as digital skills training and community development projects, positions the company as a significant contributor to Tanzania's economic and social development.
Commending the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) for its consistent efforts in recognizing and appreciating the contributions of various stakeholders to the country's development, Mr. Hamad Chande, the Deputy Minister of Finance, highlighted that such recognitions serve as powerful incentives for compliance and timely remittances, aiding the Authority in achieving revenue targets.
In an era where corporate accountability holds paramount importance, Huawei Tanzania's achievement serves as a positive example, demonstrating that businesses can prosper while fulfilling their civic duties. The event concluded with optimism for continued collaboration between the government and the private sector, with Huawei leading the way in responsible business practices and technological advancement.
Huawei's dedication to education in Tanzania is also worth noting, with partnerships established with 19 local universities and the establishment of four ICT practice labs. Over 3,000 teachers and students have received training through the Huawei ICT Academy, and more than 2,000 ICT engineers and civil servants have benefited from Huawei's ICT skills training. Furthermore, hundreds of Tanzanian students have had the opportunity to participate in Huawei's "Seeds for the Future" program over the past few years.