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Senior Business Writer

THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) has joined hands with the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zaac) and other stakeholders to combat corruption within its operations and across different sectors in the country.

The tax authority has stressed that civic responsibility plays a vital role in the collective fight against corruption hence the significance of promoting a culture of integrity that benefits the whole nation.

In a notice, the revenue authority urged the public to report any form of corruption.

“The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) wishes to advise the public to report any and all forms of corruption. It is only through vigilance and co-operation that we can eradicate these malpractices. Civic responsibility is crucial in our collective fight against corruption,” said the agency.

“We remain firmly committed to ensuring that our operations are transparent and that we serve the public with honesty and dedication. 

“We continue to work closely with Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and other stakeholders to combat corruption within our ranks and the broader public. Together, we can foster a culture of integrity that benefits all citizens and our country.”

According to the agency, a total of 306 Zimra employees have been suspended for corruption-related incidents from 2016 to September 30, 2024.

Last year, 14 were suspended, the lowest since 2016, which recorded 55.

In the ongoing anti-smuggling campaign, the revenue authority recently indicated that it has impounded goods valued at approximately US$2,4 million, targeting importers and cross-border transporters involved in smuggling and unethical business practices.

The operation has resulted in the seizure of dozens of vehicles, including cross-border buses and haulage trucks and the confiscation of illicit goods such as foodstuffs and second-hand clothes.

The operation, which involves inspections of vehicular traffic, particularly commercial and passenger transport vehicles on cross-border trade routes, is targeting transporters and non-compliant importers. The ongoing blitz is also designed to address the growing risks of smuggling, which pose threats to legitimate trade, economic development and public safety.

The operation also seeks to regularise imports, ensuring all importers pay duties and taxes while last year, the Government launched a multi-agency operation aimed at reducing smuggling and unethical business practices. The initiative was established by a high-level task force on business malpractices, formed by the Cabinet.

Authorities believe that smuggling is harming local industries and jeopardising consumer welfare.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is leading this task force, in collaboration with various agencies, including Zimra, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), the Consumer Protection Commission and other law enforcement bodies.