Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso: The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering the capacity of African journalists and communicators in tax reporting.

This pledge was articulated during the recent African Tax Media Network (ATMEN) workshop held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, under the theme: “Building Efficient and Effective Tax Systems in Africa.”​

Eugene Southgate, representing ATAF Executive Secretary Logan Woart, delivered the closing remarks at the two-day event. He emphasized the pivotal role of media professionals in shaping public understanding of tax matters and ensuring transparency within tax administrations.​

“I understand the challenges of tight deadlines and information gaps, which makes your role even more important in shaping public discourse on tax matters,” Southgate stated, drawing from his own experience in government communications.​

Southgate highlighted ATAF’s resources designed to aid journalists, notably the African Tax Outlook publication, which provides annual statistical data on revenue collection across African countries. He encouraged media professionals to utilize this resource, noting that it is tailored specifically for the African context.​

To further support informed tax reporting, Southgate proposed granting journalists access to key ATAF events, including the annual African Tax Research Network Conference. “I believe it is crucial for media professionals to attend these events to gain firsthand insights and access to critical tax data,” he added.​

In a significant move to ensure the continuity of the ATMEN initiative, Southgate announced that the workshop will become an annual event. “We are looking for the next host country and will continue to provide support just as we did for this workshop,” he assured participants.​

​He conveyed appreciation to Burkina Faso for hosting the event and facilitating meaningful dialogue between tax commutators and media professionals.

The workshop concluded with the naming of Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, Manager for Communication, Media and Public Affairs at the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), as the Chairman of ATMEN. Congratulating Sengbeh on his new role, Southgate affirmed ATAF’s full support in advancing the network’s objectives. “Your work is cut out for you, sir, but you have the backing of ATAF in carrying out this important task,” he stated.​

The ATMEN leadership team headed by Mr. Sengbeh from Liberia comprises Joséphine Baituambo Banduhu from DR Congo as Vice Chair for Administration, Prosper Ndlovu from Zimbabwe as Vice Chair for Technical Affairs, Eric Niyoyitungira from Burundi as Secretary General, and Diomma Dramé from Senegal as Assistant Secretary General.

Sponsored by ATAF, the ATMEN workshop assembled media practitioners from across Africa to discuss strategies for improving tax communication, enhancing media access to tax-related data, and strengthening collaboration between tax authorities and the press.

With ATAF’s renewed commitment, African tax journalists are poised to play a more impactful role in driving conversations around tax transparency, policy reforms, and economic development across the continent.

By: Jerry Laynumah Siakor