Liberia: BoTA Launches Taxpayer Education Campaign, Hosts Workshop in Nimba County

GANTA CITY – The Board of Tax Appeals (BoTA) has taken a bold step to enhance taxpayer awareness and promote fair tax administration in Liberia by hosting a one-day regional workshop in Ganta City, Nimba County.

Held on Monday, December 16, at Jackie’s Resort Multi-Purpose Conference Hall, the workshop focused on educating taxpayers and business owners about tax appeal processes, taxpayer rights, and BoTA’s operations.

It was themed “Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights” and featured presentations from BoTA officials and representatives from the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA).

During the event, Cllr. David M. Kolleh Jr., Commissioner of BoTA, emphasized the importance of the Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, describing it as a critical tool for safeguarding citizens under Liberia’s tax laws.

“While the government is committed to increasing tax revenue, we are equally committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the protection of taxpayers’ rights,” Cllr. Kolleh stated.

He urged participants to use the Bill of Rights to assert their legal protections while complying with their tax obligations.

One of the key highlights of the workshop was the detailed explanation of Liberia’s tax appeals process by Atty. Tonia A. Gibson, BoTA’s Deputy Executive Director for Legal Affairs.

“BoTA provides an accessible, efficient, and affordable mechanism for resolving tax disputes. We are dedicated to ensuring taxpayers receive fair treatment under the law,” Atty. Gibson said.

Atty. Gibson further reiterated BoTA’s commitment to transparency in handling disputes and announced plans for a nationwide public awareness campaign in 2025 to deepen understanding of the appeals process.

Representing the LRA, Cllr. Bruce Quaya outlined the Authority’s role in tax collection and encouraged participants to engage the LRA directly for concerns related to taxation.

He called for greater cooperation between taxpayers and LRA agents, emphasizing that improved collaboration would enhance Liberia’s tax system.

“We urge all business owners and taxpayers to leverage the tools available, including the LRA’s website, to address issues and streamline the tax process,” Cllr. Quaya noted.

The workshop featured an interactive session, where participants raised concerns and provided feedback on Liberia’s tax system.

Madam Bessy N. Gegbeh, proprietor of Planet 44 in Ganta City, urged the government to increase support for local businesses to improve revenue collection.

At the same time, Prince J. Dahn, Manager of Disinvestment Group Inc., highlighted the need for continuous tax education to encourage compliance.

He also recommended closer collaboration between the LRA and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to optimize tax administration.

The workshop in Nimba County is the first in a series of regional sessions planned by BoTA to educate taxpayers nationwide.

BOTA said other upcoming workshops will target other regions, including Bong, Lofa, Grand Gedeh, Montserrado, and Grand Bassa Counties, among others.

Moderated by BoTA’s Human Resource Director, Mr. Brisco P. Toe, the event marks a significant step in strengthening public trust in Liberia’s tax system.

Meanwhile, BoTA further noted that its initiative reflects its commitment to promoting taxpayer education, protecting citizens’ rights, and fostering accountability in Liberia’s revenue system.