The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), in partnership with the Western Region Journalists Association (WReJA), has officially launched its first-ever tax reporting workshop for journalists in Western Liberia. The training, held in Tubmanburg, brought together over 20 media professionals from Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, and Gbarpolu counties and marks a significant milestone in the Authority’s 11-year history.

Under the theme “Enhancing Tax Awareness and Public Engagement,” the workshop is designed to empower journalists with the tools and knowledge needed to accurately report on tax issues and support national development through informed public discourse.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, Manager for Communications, Media and Public Affairs at the LRA, described the initiative as a deliberate step to transform journalists into tax ambassadors.

“This training is a deliberate and timely intervention aimed at empowering journalists, thereby enhancing public awareness in underserved regions,” Sengbeh said.

He added that the effort aligns with the LRA 2025 Communication strategy, which places media engagement at the core of the Authority’s tax education and outreach approach.

“As Liberia’s development increasingly relies on domestic resource mobilization, it is crucial that journalists are equipped to inform the public on the benefits of taxation and responsibilities of taxpayers,” he emphasized.

Reading a special message on behalf of LRA Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah, Mr. Sengbeh noted that the training is part of the LRA’s broader 2025 Media Engagement Strategy, which prioritizes building the capacity of the media as a tool for promoting transparency and accountability.

“The media is one of our most valuable allies. Your voice, your platforms and your reach are key to educating the public, promoting tax compliance, and fostering national trust.” The Commissioner General said in his statement.

CG Jallah outlined a series of ambitious tax reforms currently underway, including, the transition from Goods and Services Tax (GST) to Value Added Tax (VAT) by 2026, digitization of Real Property Tax collection, expansion of the Excise Tax regime, greater integration of the informal sector into the national tax system among others.

“These reforms are bold but necessary and their success depends on public understanding and support. That’s why your role as journalists is absolutely crucial,” said Commissioner General Jallah.

He urged participants to view themselves not just as reporters, but as nation-builders: “You shape conversations, influence behavior, and build public trust. When you report responsibly on tax issues, you help create a culture of transparency and national ownership.”

Meloshe Roberts, Chairperson of the Western Region Journalists Association, also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude to the LRA for its engagement and continued support.

“We are grateful for this opportunity and for the LRA’s contribution to our General Assembly in Gbarpolu County last year,” Roberts said. He reaffirmed WReJA’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the LRA and promoting professional journalism across the region.

Key topics being highlighted include, understanding domestic and customs taxes, the role and function of the Liberia Revenue Authority, fostering community trust and credibility in journalism, enhancing tax communication in Liberia through media partnerships among others.

A central focus of the training is on improving public understanding of domestic revenue mobilization, particularly in hard-to-reach and underserved areas.

The training is expected to strengthen the role of journalists in shaping national conversations around taxation, accountability, and development, while establishing a long-term partnership between the LRA and media institutions across Liberia.