Bulawayo, (New Ziana) The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) is collaborating with local authorities and key government Ministries to bring small and medium enterprises (SMEs) into the formal tax system through simplified compliance measures and targeted education programs.
ZIMRA acting commissioner general Misheck Govha said they are working on a coordinated framework that makes it easier for SMEs to comply with tax obligations while reducing the burden of penalties.
“We have engaged with the Ministry of Local Government and local authorities throughout the country. We also have committees working on this, alongside the Ministry of Finance, to ensure that what we develop is accurate and practical,” he said.
He said ZIMRA will soon widen consultations to include the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development and representatives of SMEs to refine the framework before implementation.
“We are engaging the Ministry of SMEs after developing the draft so they can input, and we are also working closely with SMEs themselves,” he said.
Govha acknowledged concerns around penalties, adding that ZIMRA is introducing a voluntary disclosure program aimed at encouraging compliance without punitive measures.
“We are working on a voluntary disclosure public notice which will give everyone across the nation the opportunity to regularise their tax affairs without any penalty. That will be out by Friday next week and will also be available on our website,” he said.
Meanwhile, ZIMRA’s “My Tax Works” campaign team is in Bulawayo, where it has been engaging the business community in Cowdray Park.
Entrepreneurs, traders and members of the public have been attending to gain a clearer understanding of how taxes contribute to national development.
Through interactive discussions and practical demonstrations, ZIMRA is helping participants appreciate the importance of tax compliance, how revenue is collected, and how it directly benefits communities—funding improved infrastructure, healthcare services, education and other critical government initiatives.
New Ziana
