A radio discussion broadcast live by Point FM in Dodoma has brought attention to the challenge of illicit financial flows (IFFs) in Tanzania. The conversation featured three voices from the media and civil society: Ephrahim Bahemu, Business Editor at Mwananchi Communications Ltd; Grace Melleor, a journalist with Star TV (Sahara Communications); and Israel Ilunde, Executive Director of Youth Partnership Countrywide (YPC) and Chairperson of the Policy Forum Board.

At a recent breakfast debate organized by Policy Forum with the support of Thomson Reuters Foundation (TRF), the spotlight was on the devastating impact of illicit financial flows (IFFs) on Tanzania’s economy. According to the 2021 Global Financial Integrity report, Tanzania loses roughly $1.83 billion every year as companies manipulate invoicing practices on exports and imports, a figure that underscores a critical economic challenge.

Tax systems are fundamental to the equitable development of any nation, serving a crucial role in resource mobilization and the provision of essential services. However, systemic inequities often prevent these systems from achieving true fairness and inclusivity, particularly in countries like Tanzania. Marginalized groups—including low-income households and women—frequently shoulder a disproportionate tax burden, while the distribution of public revenue remains uneven.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The first Breakfast Debate of 2025, organized by Policy Forum, brought attention to significant concerns regarding Tanzania’s tax system, which, according to experts, is facing stagnation in both tax collection and domestic resource mobilization (DRM). These challenges are increasingly seen as barriers to achieving both economic growth and social equity in the country.

Dodoma, Tanzania – October 08, 2024

Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Tanzania are trained on how Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) erode national budgets, as part of the Expose the Flow: Working Together to Curb IFFs in Sub-Saharan Africa project. Funded by NORAD through the Thomson Reuters Foundation (TRF), the training equips CSOs with the skills and knowledge needed to combat IFFs and advocate for stronger financial governance.

Dodoma, Tanzania – September 25, 2024

From September 23rd to 25th, 2024, Policy Forum hosted a transformative training on Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs), Tax Justice, and Domestic Resource Mobilization (DRM). This pivotal event brought together Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and stakeholders, igniting a critical conversation on enhancing Tanzania’s tax system, bolstering revenue collection, and addressing the detrimental effects of IFFs. The session underscored the pressing need for tax justice and equitable economic reforms.