By Horn Africa News
MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia has announced a new crackdown on tax evasion, vowing to bring business owners who fail to pay their dues before the courts. Officials say the trials will be televised to ensure transparency and accountability.
Deputy Minister of Finance, Abdiqafar Elmi Hange, speaking at a joint press conference with revenue collection authorities, revealed that several cases of tax evasion are already under government review. He stressed that the era of appealing to businesses to voluntarily comply with tax laws is over, and that payments will now be collected by force if necessary.
“From now on, we will no longer beg anyone to pay what is owed. Taxes will be collected by law, and businesses that bypass registered financial systems will be held accountable in court,” Hange said.
The minister emphasized that accountability for tax evasion is a constitutional obligation in most countries around the world. However, in Somalia, prosecuting business owners has long been difficult due to weak enforcement mechanisms and gaps in the rule of law, as many businesspeople themselves lack full legal recognition under the country’s fragile governance system.
The government’s move marks a significant step in strengthening state revenue collection, which has historically been undermined by informal markets, corruption, and widespread tax avoidance. Analysts say that if implemented effectively, the policy could boost domestic revenue and reduce the country’s heavy reliance on foreign aid.
