Business
The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has successfully concluded a week-long sensitization campaign in Eastern Uganda aimed at promoting the adoption of the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS).
This initiative targeted VAT-registered taxpayers in Tororo, Busia, Kamuli, and Jinja, equipping them with knowledge on how to integrate EFRIS into their business operations.
During the sessions, URA officials emphasized the pivotal role of EFRIS in enhancing tax compliance, accurate record-keeping, efficient stock management, simplified tax return filing, and expediting refund claims. Speaking during the Jinja session, Olivia Kiconco, a URA officer in the Department of Domestic Taxes, noted that attitudes toward EFRIS have significantly improved.
“At its inception, many believed EFRIS was just another form of tax. However, after our sensitization efforts, most taxpayers now recognize its value in streamlining business operations and ensuring compliance,” Kiconco explained.
The campaign targeted newly registered VAT taxpayers, a demographic URA sees as key to driving the system’s adoption.
Mark Oluka, also from URA’s Domestic Taxes Department, revealed that the Jinja engagement had a strong turnout, with many of the district’s 1,200 registered taxpayembracing EFRIS.
“The system is designed to automate the issuance of e-invoices and e-receipts, reducing errors and delays in reporting while making it easier for businesses to meet their tax obligations,” Oluka said.
He further explained that EFRIS adoption is also being bolstered by requirements from contractors, who now demand e-receipts during the bidding process.
Participants praised EFRIS for its role in improving financial management and business performance tracking.
“The system is excellent for bookkeeping and allows you to monitor your business from anywhere,” said Zaliika Nalubanga a participant.
However, she highlighted challenges, including reliance on stable internet connectivity, which limits usability in areas with poor network coverage.
The participants also called for more practical, hands-on training. “Next time, we need laptops for practical lessons. Theory sessions are easy to forget,” suggested Sadat Gawune a taxpayer.
URA reiterated its commitment to expanding the sensitization program across the country, acknowledging taxpayers’ calls for more interactive and practical sessions.
“We understand the need for practical training, and we’ll continue improving the delivery of these programs to ensure that taxpayers are fully equipped to integrate EFRIS into their businesses effectively,” Kiconco assured.
As URA pushes for nationwide adoption of EFRIS, the initiative is seen as a crucial step toward fostering transparency, increasing compliance, and simplifying tax processes for businesses in Uganda.
