Libanese Embassy,Spur Road
Freetown, Sierra Leone
17th July 2025
The Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura, was engaged at a high-level diplomatic breakfast meeting held at the Libanese Embassy in Freetown. The engagement convened sixteen Ambassadors and Heads of Missions accredited to Sierra Leone to discuss critical tax administration issues impacting diplomatic operations in the country.
In his opening remarks, his Excellency Jens Kraus-Masse, the German Ambassador and Head of the Diplomatic Corps warmly welcomed Mrs Bangura, and thanked her for forming part of the delegation for such an important deliberation. He centered his discussion around key tax processes such as timely issuances of Goods and Services Tax Certificates, withholding tax procedures, customs clearing processes and tax exemption for diplomatic missions. He also called for enhanced clarity and efficiency in the implementation of the Tax and Duty Exemption Act 2023, especially concerning entitlements for diplomatic staff.
Among the dignitaries present were Her Excellency Rasha Soliman Mohi Eldin (Egypt), His Excellency Bryan David Hunt (United States), Dr. Farah Farah (Lebanon), Ms. Kathleen Rcid (United Kingdom), and Her Excellency Angie Kolue Lavelah (Liberia), among others.
Commissioner General Bangura addressed the concerns raised, providing a detailed explanation of the GST certificate and refund process both prior to and following the enactment of the 2025 Finance Act. She assured the diplomatic community that current applications for GST exemptions are being processed and that reimbursements will follow promptly once the consolidated listings are finalized. She also clarified the application of withholding tax provisions as they pertain to diplomatic transactions.
Recognizing the need to avoid further delays in customs clearing processes, the Commissioner General emphasized the role of clearing and forwarding agencies and advised missions to work closely with compliant and vetted agents to ensure seamless processing. She underscored the importance of upholding diplomatic privileges responsibly and reiterated the NRA’s commitment to fostering transparency, efficiency, and compliance.
The meeting further resolved that sustained collaboration between the diplomatic community, the NRA, the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and relevant actors such as the Trade Union is essential in addressing the persistent challenges related to customs clearance, tax exemptions, and the broader fiscal framework governing diplomatic operations in Sierra Leone.
The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen inter-agency coordination and institutional engagement, ensuring that the evolving tax landscape remains fair, efficient, and supportive of Sierra Leone’s international obligations.
Public Affairs and Tax Education Unit
National Revenue Authority
RENSIS House Gloucester Street, Freetown
www.nra.gov.sl
