Tax Pitso 2026 Opens with Call for Fair and Sustainable Reform

Tax Pitso 2026 Opens with Call for Fair and Sustainable Reform. The inaugural Tax Pitso 2026 opened today in Gaborone, bringing together government leaders, industry stakeholders, and citizens to deliberate on shaping a fair, efficient, and sustainable tax system. The gathering is held under the theme “Shaping Botswana’s Future Tax System: Dialogue for Fair and Sustainable Tax Reform.”

Delivering the keynote address, Acting President and Minister of Finance, Mr. Ndaba Gaolathe, emphasized that tax reform is central to Botswana’s economic transformation. He highlighted the need to strengthen domestic revenue in light of declining mineral returns, outlining priorities such as modernising tax laws, expanding VAT into the digital economy, and building a unified, efficient, and trusted tax system.

The Acting Commissioner General of Botswana Unified Revenue Services (BURS), Mr. Phodiso Valashia, addressed existing gaps in compliance and public trust. He called for a national reset anchored on accountability, digital transformation, and simplified processes. Valashia further presented a roadmap focused on closing revenue leakages, strengthening systems, and improving service delivery. He stressed that taxation must be embraced as a shared civic responsibility, directly enabling Botswana’s development.

Tourism taxation was highlighted as a strategic lever, balancing revenue generation with destination competitiveness. Well-structured tax frameworks can attract investment, support sustainable practices, and strengthen community-based tourism. When aligned with conservation goals, tourism taxes serve as reinvestments into Botswana’s natural heritage, ensuring long-term value for both the sector and the economy.

Day two of the Tax Pitso will focus on sector-specific engagements, including tourism, to advance practical solutions and collaborative pathways for Botswana’s evolving tax landscape. The conference marks a pivotal moment in shaping reforms that aim to secure fiscal sustainability while fostering inclusive growth.