NRA Boss Discusses Tax Exemptions & Customs Reforms
The Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to improving transparency and efficiency in tax administration during a high-level diplomatic engagement held at the Lebanese Embassy on Spur Road in Freetown.
The breakfast meeting brought together sixteen Ambassadors and Heads of Missions accredited to Sierra Leone to discuss key issues surrounding tax exemptions, customs reforms, and broader fiscal policies affecting diplomatic missions in the country.
In his opening remarks, His Excellency Jens Kraus-Masse, the German Ambassador and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, welcomed Mrs. Bangura and praised the NRA’s openness to dialogue. He highlighted persistent challenges facing diplomatic missions, including delays in the issuance of Goods and Services Tax (GST) certificates, complexities surrounding withholding tax, customs clearance procedures, and the implementation of the Tax and Duty Exemption Act 2023.
Ambassador Kraus-Masse emphasized the need for clarity and consistency in the application of exemption privileges granted to diplomatic staff.
Among the diplomats present were Her Excellency Rasha Soliman Mohi Eldin of Egypt, His Excellency Bryan David Hunt of the United States, Dr. Farah Farah of Lebanon, Ms. Kathleen Reid of the United Kingdom, and Her Excellency Angie Kolue Lavelah of Liberia.
Responding to the concerns raised, Mrs. Bangura provided detailed insights into the GST certificate and refund processes, particularly in light of recent reforms under the 2025 Finance Act.
She assured the diplomatic community that outstanding applications are being diligently processed and that refunds will be issued promptly upon the completion of consolidated listings.
She further clarified the treatment of withholding tax as it relates specifically to diplomatic transactions.
Addressing issues with customs clearance, Mrs. Bangura encouraged diplomatic missions to work with certified clearing and forwarding agencies to avoid unnecessary delays.
She reiterated the NRA’s commitment to upholding diplomatic privileges, while ensuring compliance with national laws.
“Diplomatic exemptions are a privilege tied to responsibility. Our goal is to maintain transparency and efficiency while meeting our international obligations,” she stated.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of sustained collaboration between the diplomatic community, the NRA, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant stakeholders, including the Trade Union. It was agreed that such cooperation is key to resolving longstanding issues related to tax exemptions, customs procedures, and broader fiscal governance.
Participants expressed optimism that these ongoing engagements would foster a tax environment that is both fair and supportive of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic relations.