In 2015, governments across the world made a Commitment to Reduce Inequality Index (CRII) through the Sustainable Development Goals (especially SDG 10). The different levels of inequality that exist in countries show that inequality is far from inevitable; rather, it is the product of policy choices made by governments.

[Nairobi, Kenya-1 August 2025] The African Civil Society Organisations Working Group on the UN Tax Convention coordinated by Tax Justice Network Africa is calling for global tax equity as Intergovernmental Committee proceeds towards its first and second substantive sessions on developing the text of the the United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation (UNFTIC) in New York, from 4-8 August 2025 and 11-15 August 2025, respectively.

A radio discussion broadcast live by Point FM in Dodoma has brought attention to the challenge of illicit financial flows (IFFs) in Tanzania. The conversation featured three voices from the media and civil society: Ephrahim Bahemu, Business Editor at Mwananchi Communications Ltd; Grace Melleor, a journalist with Star TV (Sahara Communications); and Israel Ilunde, Executive Director of Youth Partnership Countrywide (YPC) and Chairperson of the Policy Forum Board.

At a recent breakfast debate organized by Policy Forum with the support of Thomson Reuters Foundation (TRF), the spotlight was on the devastating impact of illicit financial flows (IFFs) on Tanzania’s economy. According to the 2021 Global Financial Integrity report, Tanzania loses roughly $1.83 billion every year as companies manipulate invoicing practices on exports and imports, a figure that underscores a critical economic challenge.

Tax systems are fundamental to the equitable development of any nation, serving a crucial role in resource mobilization and the provision of essential services. However, systemic inequities often prevent these systems from achieving true fairness and inclusivity, particularly in countries like Tanzania. Marginalized groups—including low-income households and women—frequently shoulder a disproportionate tax burden, while the distribution of public revenue remains uneven.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The first Breakfast Debate of 2025, organized by Policy Forum, brought attention to significant concerns regarding Tanzania’s tax system, which, according to experts, is facing stagnation in both tax collection and domestic resource mobilization (DRM). These challenges are increasingly seen as barriers to achieving both economic growth and social equity in the country.