In a significant move to tackle corruption and enhance revenue collection, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has announced plans to implement body-worn cameras.
President Museveni recognizes corruption as a major challenge undermining the country’s revenue collection efforts. The tax body has begun soliciting proposals from eligible bidders for the supply of body-worn cameras.
The body-worn cameras, which URA officers will wear on their chest or shoulder lapel, aim to prevent situations that could compromise the integrity of URA officers.
The cameras will monitor and record ongoing transactions and operations in the field, providing evidence to deter misconduct.
They can be worn on the uniform, hat, or eyeglasses, ensuring transparency during operations such as stop-and-search incidents and interactions with taxpayers.
The Director for Economy Affairs at the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Moses Kaggwa, emphasized the positive impact of body-worn cameras on reducing corruption.
He stated that the cameras would enable easy monitoring of officers’ activities, enhancing accountability and minimizing the chances of officers compromising taxpayers.
The implementation of body-worn cameras aligns with the government’s objective of ensuring smooth revenue collection and improving tax administration.
In the Budget Speech delivered by the Minister of Finance, Mr. Matia Kasaija, measures to enhance revenue collection were outlined, including the use of body cameras as part of extensive intelligence-focused operations.
These measures aim to intensify surveillance, strengthen border control to curb smuggling, and leverage ICT to combat tax evasion.
The government aims to raise revenue collection to between 16 and 18 percent of GDP over the next five years, compared to the current rate of about 13.5 percent of GDP.
Body-worn cameras have proven effective in deterring anti-social behavior, crime, and safeguarding personnel against accusations of misconduct.
By deploying this technology, URA seeks to enhance transparency, integrity, and accountability within its operations while combating corruption.
