As the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) continues to drive forward its initiatives on tax and gender across the continent, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: closing gender gaps plays a pivotal role in boosting economic growth.
The launch of the ATAF Women in Tax Network (AWITN) Pledge represents a significant step in addressing this issue. This pledge is a commitment by various countries to adopt a focused, gender-sensitive approach to tax policy and administration. The pledge was officially sealed during the 2024 Annual Meetings in Kigali, Rwanda, with the signing of the AWITN pledge by Commissioner Generals from 14 African countries: Botswana, Burkina Faso, Eswatini, Gabon, The Gambia, Lesotho, Liberia, Morocco, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Zambia.
The AWITN Gender Champion, Mr. Sam Shivute, ATAF Vice-Chairman and Commissioner of Namibia, expressed his excitement about the pledge, stating, “No one wants to feel discriminated against, it is not nice. This pledge stamps NamRA’s commitment to a more equal society through more women in technical tax areas, uplifting women to leadership positions based on merit, and quantifying changes in biased tax policies.” Mr. Shivute’s words reflect a shared sentiment among those who understand the importance of creating an equal and inclusive environment in tax administration.
Dr. Philippe Tchodie, Commissioner General for the Office Togolais des Recettes (OTR), reinforced this message, emphasizing that tax policies and administrative designs should not negatively impact women. He remarked, “It is important for the design of tax administration and policies not to negatively impact women. As Togo, we are ready to embark on an evidenced approach to the enhancement of tax administration and policy from a gendered lens.” This collective call for action aims to encourage even more ATAF member countries to sign the AWITN pledge and integrate gender considerations into their tax strategies, policies, and administration.
Ms. Veronique Herminie, Chairperson of the AWITN, highlighted that the signing of the pledge by 14 Commissioner Generals was a landmark achievement for ATAF’s gender equality agenda. She noted that this commitment from revenue authorities represents a promise to promote more gender-responsive approaches in governance, leadership, and policy decisions.
The pledge also aligns with the broader mandate of the AWITN, as it emphasizes the importance of collaboration in advancing gender equality initiatives. One of the key elements of the pledge is the commitment to collect gender-aggregated data. This data is essential for conducting accurate analyses and assessments of gender disparities within tax systems, ultimately enabling more informed decision-making and improvements in policy.
As the AWITN pledge gains traction, the ATAF remains steadfast in its mission to drive gender equality in African tax administrations. The continued mobilization of ATAF member countries to sign the pledge and mainstream gender considerations into their strategies is crucial to achieving long-term, inclusive growth on the continent.
Click here to download and read the full pledge.
