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The minister of finance, planning and economic development, Matia Kasaija, has blasted non-compliant taxpayers in Uganda.

"Anybody who is in the tax bracket and does not pay his or her taxes is an enemy of himself or herself," he said on Thursday, November 23.

The minister was speaking at this year's Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Taxpayer Appreciation Day at its headquarters in Kampala.

It was held under the theme, "Celebrating the Economic Heroes of Uganda".

Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda, Kisiizi Hospital in Rukungiri, Ankole Diocese Bishop Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa, Kisiizi Gaming and Mildmay Uganda were among the individuals and companies awarded for their exceptional contribution to revenue mobilization and tax returns compliance.

Kasaija called upon Ugandans to join efforts to sustain the economy and propel themselves to greater heights.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who was the chief guest at the function, thanked every taxpayer who has paid their due share of taxes. 

"Thank you very much; the Government relies on you to finance its service delivery," she said.

She also thanked the ministry of finance for offering oversight and guidance to this very important function, saying this is an obligation the nation cannot do without. 

URA's commissioner general, John Musinguzi, congratulated all the Taxpayers Appreciation Awards winners for showing outstanding commitment and hardwork in contributing to Uganda's development.

"We appreciate and celebrate you. We understand that paying taxes is not always an easy task and we acknowledge the sacrifices many of you make to fulfill this responsibility. Your dedication does not go unnoticed," he told the top taxpayers.

The awards were presented to the winners by Nabbanja and Kasaija.

On May 30, 2023, Musinguzi said their register had about 3.2 million taxpayers.

“Whereas we could be having nine million potential taxpayers, our register now has about 3.2 million people, but it’s an increase from about 1.5 million taxpayers that we had two years ago,” he said.

He said this at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala during the launch of the National Budget month for the financial year 2023/24.