By P. Vangerline Kpotoe
MONROVIA, July 1 (LINA) —The West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF), says African countries should use the ongoing UN Tax Convention negotiations to push for international tax rules that are fairer and better suited to their revenue needs.
Speaking at a Tax Justice Network Africa and CCFD-Terre Solidaire webinar on mobilizing Francophone civil society around the UN Tax Convention, WATAF Executive Secretary Jules Tapsoba described the Convention as more than a diplomatic process. He said it is a chance for Africa to shape global tax standards around its own development priorities, especially domestic resource mobilization.
Tapsoba told participants that effective international tax cooperation is critical for African states to increase domestic revenue, curb illicit financial flows, improve transparency, and boost compliance in a globalized economy.
“The challenge for many African countries is not just raising more revenue, but making sure international rules support, rather than weaken, those efforts,” he said.
He outlined WATAF’s work supporting West African tax authorities through training, technical assistance, research, and policy dialogue. The Forum is also helping members handle complex cross-border tax issues and new global reforms, including regional tools for sharing tax information.
WATAF’s International Taxation Committee added that being strengthened to improve coordination among members and ensure West Africa has a stronger voice in global tax debates. Key focus areas include information exchange, transparency, joint audits, revenue recovery, fighting illicit flows, and taxing cross-border economic activity.
Tapsoba also stressed the role of Francophone civil society in raising awareness, promoting accountability, and ensuring tax reforms deliver benefits to citizens.
With negotiations set to continue in Nairobi, Kenya, WATAF reaffirmed its commitment to building member capacity, supporting policy dialogue, and engaging on international tax issues.
The Forum maintains that greater African involvement in global tax governance will lead to a more equitable system and stronger domestic revenue mobilization across the continent.
Tax Administration Forum brings together tax administrations across the region to strengthen domestic resource mobilization through cooperation, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.