Africa media tax cooperation WATAF is urged as tax forum links press freedom to transparency, compliance and stronger domestic revenue mobilisation

The West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF), called for enhanced cooperation between media organisations and tax authorities across Africa, stressing that press freedom remains critical to improving tax compliance and strengthening transparency in public finance systems.

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The Africa media tax cooperation WATAF appeal was made in a statement marking World Press Freedom Day, issued by the Forum’s Executive Secretary, Jules Tapsoba.

Tapsoba said a free and independent press plays a vital role in building accountable tax systems, improving citizen trust, and supporting sustainable domestic revenue mobilisation across the continent.

He noted that responsible journalism helps citizens better understand tax policies and government spending, while also holding public institutions accountable for their actions.

“A free and responsible press is indispensable to transparent tax systems. By informing citizens and holding institutions accountable, the media strengthens trust, improves compliance, and supports sustainable domestic revenue mobilisation,” Tapsoba said.

WATAF observed that many African governments are increasingly focusing on domestic revenue generation as a way to reduce dependence on external borrowing and foreign aid.

The Forum added that public confidence in institutions, supported by access to accurate information, directly influences citizens’ willingness to meet tax obligations.

It further stated that quality reporting on taxation, governance, and public finance helps combat tax evasion, illicit financial flows, and corruption, which continue to undermine revenue systems across Africa.

WATAF commended journalists across the continent for maintaining professionalism despite operational challenges, describing the media as a key partner in strengthening accountability.

The organisation urged revenue authorities to adopt more transparent communication strategies and engage the media more actively in taxpayer education and public awareness campaigns.

It maintained that stronger collaboration between tax agencies and the press would improve understanding of tax reforms, boost voluntary compliance, and support national development goals.

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WATAF also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, knowledge sharing, and institutional cooperation to build more resilient tax systems across West Africa and the wider continent.