NRA DIRECTOR KARGBO HIGHLIGHTS JENDEMA BORDER GAINS

By Morlai Sesay

The Director of Research, Planning and Monitoring at the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Dr. Phillip Kargbo has highlighted the impact of the newly constructed border post at Jendema, describing it as a major step towards improving revenue collection, enhancing border security, and strengthening economic activities along the Sierra Leone-Liberia border. Speaking during the National Civic Day Series in Pujehun district, Dr. Philip Kargbo said the modern border facility has significantly increased tax collection at the Jendema crossing point while improving the monitoring of cross-border movements.

According to Dr. Kargbo, the border post represents the government's commitment to modernizing revenue administration and safeguarding national interests. He noted that improved infrastructure at the border has enabled the NRA to collect more revenue while supporting national security efforts.

Director Kargbo explained that domestic revenue has become increasingly important in sustaining government operations amid a sharp decline in donor support over the past two years. He stated that taxes collected by the NRA continue to finance critical development projects across the country, including road construction and electricity expansion in Pujehun District. "The development people are seeing today, including roads and electricity, is largely made possible through taxes paid by citizens and businesses," he said.

As part of the civic engagement, Dr. Kargbo engaged young people on the importance of taxation, emphasising that paying tax is both a civic responsibility and a contribution to national development. He urged citizens to always request and collect Goods and Services Tax (GST) receipts when purchasing goods or services, noting that this practice helps strengthen tax compliance and accountability.

Dr. Kargbo further stressed that tax-paying citizens are better positioned to hold government accountable for the utilisation of public resources. He also noted that tax compliance creates economic opportunities, explaining that a tax clearance certificate is a key requirement for securing government contracts.

Looking ahead, Dr. Kargbo disclosed that the NRA is planning to establish a presence in Solima, which he described as a strategic economic hub with significant potential for revenue generation. He assured residents that efforts are underway to bring NRA services closer to the people of Solima as part of the Authority's nationwide expansion strategy. The NRA is a key partner supporting the National Civic Day Series and will continue its public tax education campaign during the town hall meeting scheduled for June 2, 2026, in Pujehun.