Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has significantly improved its risk management and fraud detection capabilities through the extensive use of technologies such as drones, leading to a notable increase in revenue collection, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Professor Mthuli Ncube has said.
In a speech delivered on his behalf during International Customs Day commemorations in Harare by Margiretta Makuwaza, the acting Chief Director of International Cooperation, Tax and Financial Sector Policy in the Ministry of Finance, Ncube said ZIMRA successfully collected US$467 476.39 and ZWG9 617 873.70 through the use of scanners and drones.
He said ZIMRA has made unprecedented seizures of different types of drugs, with 55 vehicle detentions and a total of 255 interceptions.
Ncube added that by leveraging on advanced technologies, as ZIMRA has already begun to do, it can enhance capacity to monitor trade, travel and economic activities along the value chain and secure much needed revenue.
“The drone project exemplifies the desire to secure our borders, protect civil society and stop revenue leakages through smuggling and other ill vices.
“The Single Window project is another milestone which will reduce dwell time and the cost of doing business.
“This is yet another major trade facilitation project which brings numerous benefits to the trade community,” he said.
He said efficiency has been central to ZIMRA’s initiatives with fast scanners, one-stop-border posts, e-tariff and various digital interventions coming to mind.
ZIMRA has also built an impressive track record of innovative successes in fields ranging from tax collection to trade facilitation, he said.
“The fact that it has collected revenues amounting to 107.1 Billion ZiG and US$ 6.19 Billion exceeding the target by 4.51 and 4.59 respectively is a measure of its efficiency.
“More specifically, the ZIMRA’s Customs department has done a lot in protecting the citizens against illegal drugs, hazardous goods and illicit practices,” he said.
Ncube said the government will continue to provide unwavering support to ZIMRA to acquire the latest tools, equipment, and technology to further boost the fight against the trafficking of illicit drugs.
“As we celebrate International Customs Day, let us remember the impact of our work. Each of us has a role to play in fostering a culture of compliance and efficiency, ensuring that our customs operations contribute to the economic prosperity of Zimbabwe. Together, we can achieve remarkable progress and set a precedent for future generations,” he said.
The International Customs Day, observed on 26 January, is dedicated to the united efforts of customs to support people and businesses by strengthening the global supply chain, reinforcing collaboration, harnessing technology and putting traditional and new partners at the center of the transformation process.
This year’s commemorations ran under the theme “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity.”
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