Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) called for bold and progressive tax reforms to boost health financing across the continent, highlighting the transformative power of fair and equitable taxation. This was during the 10th African Tax Research Network (ATRN) Congress in Cape Town, South Africa. Africa.
Held under the theme “Contemporary Taxation Issues in Africa: Shaping the Continent’s Fiscal Space – Past, Present and Future”, the Congress brought together policymakers, researchers, civil society, and international partners to examine Africa’s tax challenges and opportunities for reform.
Over three days, participants gathered to explore innovative solutions that can broaden Africa’s fiscal space, reduce harmful consumption, and ensure revenues are invested in universal health coverage and stronger public health systems.
In her remarks, TJNA’s Executive Director, Ms. Chenai Mukumba, reflected a decade of international tax reforms and Africa’s evolving role in global governance. She emphasised that while multilateralism has not always fully met the continent’s needs, it remains the most effective platform for African countries to influence international tax decisions.
“Multilateralism may not have fully met Africa’s needs, but it remains the most viable platform to influence international financial architecture. Even when powerful actors step aside, negotiations continue and that gives Africa space to push its priorities. The challenge now is to ensure our voices shape the next decade of global tax governance,” Ms. Mukumba said.
The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) Executive Secretary, Ms. Mary Baine, commended the ATRN congress for building Africa’s knowledge base.
“This Congress underlines a wonderful journey of growth of thought leadership and research capabilities across the continent. It also underscores why a strong, trusted knowledge base is indispensable for shaping Africa’s taxation outlook: sound evidence steers choices, and choices shape outcomes for our citizens. Sound research steers choices, and choices shape outcomes for our citizens. Together, we are strengthening Africa’s ability to define its fiscal future,” Ms. Baine said.
TJNA’s Senior Policy Officer, Ms. Chileshe Mange called for stronger political commitment to implement smart taxes that both improve public health and boost revenues.
“Raising and restructuring domestic revenues is the most reliable way for African countries to finance universal health coverage. Smart taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks can transform health systems. The time to act is now,” said Ms. Chileshe.
Adding to this, TJNA’s Policy Officer, Mr. John Thomi, showcased TJNA’s Tobacco Excise Tax Simulation Model (TETSiM) and urged African governments to leverage progressive taxes to boost health financing and stressed the need for transparency in managing revenues from excise taxes.
“Health taxes can reduce harmful consumption and generate vital funds. But governments must ensure transparent budgeting, better tax administration, and protections for the poor so that revenues promote equity rather than deepen inequalities,” said Mr. Thomi.
Discussions highlighted persistent challenges, including political resistance to health taxes, conflicts between health and industry interests, illicit trade, weak regional harmonisation, and lack of transparency in revenue use. Participants agreed on clear pathways forward: leveraging innovative tax tools, improving governance, and aligning tax policy with health and equity objectives.
As the continent navigates growing health and fiscal pressures, the outcomes of the 10th ATRN Congress provide renewed momentum for bold reforms that put people at the centre of Africa’s fiscal future.
For more information about TJNA’s participation at the 10th ATRN Congress, please contact John Thomi at jthomi[@]taxjusticeafrica.net
