ZIMRA engages Shangani business community on tax regime

Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) officials on 11 February held an engagement meeting with business operators and farmers at Shangani Business Centre in Insiza North to educate them on tax obligations, including presumptive tax.

The meeting, held at the Farmers' Hall Club, is part of ZIMRA's ongoing outreach programme in the region. Officials have been meeting small‑scale miners, farmers and business owners to raise awareness on tax compliance, the new Tax Revenue Management System (TaRMS), and the importance of obtaining tax clearances.

The session began with Insiza Health Inspector Torment Moyo, who emphasised the importance of public health standards, shop licensing and proper business registration.

A ZIMRA official reminded attendees that tax clearance certificates are issued free of charge.

Key points highlighted during the meeting included the purpose of tax clearances (ITF263), with ZIMRA stressing that a valid certificate prevents the 30% withholding tax applied when supplying goods and services without clearance.

The outreach targeted farmers, miners and business operators to encourage formalisation and understanding of tax responsibilities. Attendees were also guided on using the TaRMS system, which automatically generates tax clearances.

ZIMRA noted that compliance benefits all sectors: farmers can avoid withholding tax on produce, while miners gain legal operating status and access to incentives.

Shangani residents applauded ZIMRA for engaging them directly and explaining the importance of tax compliance.

However, soon after the meeting ended, residents warned each other about an armed mobile gang reportedly operating in the area, robbing and raping people as early as 7pm. Villagers agreed to form teams to assist police in tracking down the criminals who have been terrorising the community.