Published: October 20, 2025
MONROVIA – In a continent that has long depended on foreign aid to support its public programs, more African journalists are stepping up to change the story, using their pens, microphones, and cameras to promote a culture of tax awareness and accountability.
Across Africa, journalists are increasingly taking on the role of educating citizens about the importance of paying taxes, emphasizing how domestic revenue can lay the groundwork for sustainable development. Their efforts are revitalizing public discussions around taxation, transparency, and self-reliance — issues that are central to Africa’s economic future. Leading this movement is the Africa Tax Administrative Forum Journalists Network, a professional organization of journalists committed to reporting on tax and fiscal issues across the continent. Under the leadership of Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, ATAF has been quietly transforming how tax topics are covered and understood. “It hasn’t been easy.
The journey is tough, but we are undeterred,” Sengbeh said in a recent statement posted on Facebook as he recognized the good work of some journalists for the month of September. “With passion, resilience, and teamwork, we are confident we will get there. Yes, we can!” Sengbeh’s optimism reflects a broader determination among African journalists to help citizens connect the dots between taxes and national progress.
Many believe that Africa cannot attain economic independence while tax evasion, weak enforcement, and low public awareness continue to hinder domestic resource mobilization. In September, ATAF recognized three journalists for their outstanding work in covering tax and revenue stories: Ian Ramanyiki of Uganda, Winston Nelson Mwale of Malawi, and Félicienne Houessou of Benin. The trio topped the network’s “Tax Journalists of the Month” list, an initiative launched in June to honor professionalism, consistency, and impact in tax reporting.
According to ATAF, 16 members across the continent collectively produced 60 tax- and revenue-related stories in September alone, a testament to the growing momentum of the movement. Sengbeh said such reporting is essential for shifting public attitudes toward taxation in Africa. “When journalists explain how tax revenues build schools, hospitals, and roads, they make the issue real for ordinary citizens,” said Sengbeh, who is the manager for communication and public relations at the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), in an interview with The Liberian Investigator via phone.
“Awareness not only encourages compliance but also enhances accountability.” The role of journalists goes beyond education; they also act as watchdogs, scrutinizing how tax revenues are managed and holding governments responsible for their use. Through investigative reporting and detailed analysis, they reveal loopholes, corruption, and misuse of public funds, ensuring that citizens’ contributions result in tangible benefits. In many countries, however, journalists covering tax and economic issues face significant challenges, including limited access to information, technical complexity, threats, and political interference. Nonetheless, networks like ATAF provide vital support, training, and solidarity to help journalists overcome these obstacles.
Sengbeh and his team imagine a future where every African nation has a lively community of tax reporters leading national discussions on fiscal justice and sustainable development. “We remain committed to reaching every country and building a strong, collective voice in shaping and sharing the African tax story,” he said.
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