The Namibia Revenue Agency has garnered N$3.4 million from its whistleblower hotline, which is operated by Deloitte Namibia. Since its full operation in May 2024, the hotline has received numerous reports concerning various illegal activities. NamRA emphasizes public engagement in upholding tax integrity and assures confidentiality for whistleblowers.
The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) has successfully recovered N$3.4 million in revenue due to information provided via its whistleblower hotline, showcasing the initiative’s effectiveness against tax evasion and illicit activities. The hotline, launched in 2023 and fully operational since May 2024, is independently managed by Deloitte Namibia, proving essential for fostering transparency and accountability within the revenue collection framework.
To date, the hotline has received 60 reports, detailing various serious concerns such as fraud, corruption, tax evasion, alleged money laundering, drug smuggling, and unethical practices. According to NamRA’s Chief Strategic Communications Officer, Yarukeekuro Steven Ndorokaze, the initiative has had a significant impact, resulting in N$15.8 million raised from assessments, of which N$3.4 million has been recovered from three companies in November and December 2024 alone.
Ndorokaze emphasized, “This milestone underscores the hotline’s effectiveness in serving as a platform for promoting compliance, ethical governance and responsible tax administration.” He reaffirmed NamRA’s commitment to enhancing tax compliance and encouraged all taxpayers and stakeholders to actively use the Whistleblowing Hotline. He stated, “The public plays a vital role in upholding integrity and accountability within Namibia’s tax system by reporting suspicious activities.”
To protect whistleblowers, all reports are handled with maximum confidentiality. Reports can be submitted anonymously and without fear of retaliation through various channels, including a toll-free number, an email address, and an official website.
The Namibia Revenue Agency has demonstrated the significant impact of its whistleblower hotline by recovering N$3.4 million from illicit activities. The initiative has become a crucial resource for ensuring tax compliance and accountability within Namibia. With robust protections for whistleblowers, the agency encourages public involvement to maintain the integrity of the tax system.
Original Source: economist.com.na
