Plumtree, Zimbabwe – On January 26, 2026, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) marked International Customs Day with a vibrant ceremony at the Plumtree Border Post, drawing attention to the essential role of customs in safeguarding society. The day centered around the World Customs Organization (WCO) theme, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” emphasizing the importance of customs authorities in a rapidly changing global landscape.

In her address, Acting Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mrs. Angeline Mashiri, reiterated the WCO’s message that customs administrations worldwide serve as vital protectors of national security and public health. “The theme reflects the evolving role of customs in safeguarding economies while enabling development. It calls for our community to take collective action in protecting society,” she stated, echoing the WCO's imperative for shared responsibility among customs officials and the public alike.

ZIMRA Commissioner General Regina Chinamasa also emphasized the human aspect of customs operations. “Customs is not just about borders; it’s about people. Our officers are unsung heroes, standing at the frontline of our nation’s economic and social security,” she said, underscoring the often unseen efforts of customs personnel who work tirelessly to protect the public from harmful goods.

Mashiri highlighted the critical functions of customs beyond mere enforcement. “Customs is more than control; it is about care for our communities and the integrity of our borders,” she emphasized. This message resonated throughout the day, as participants were reminded of the pivotal role customs plays in enhancing trade facilitation while simultaneously safeguarding against illicit activities that threaten public safety.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon. David Kudakwashe Mnangagwa, and Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, who both expressed their gratitude to customs officers and their unwavering commitment to protecting Zimbabwe’s economic future.

As a testament to the effectiveness of ZIMRA’s efforts, Deputy Minister Mnangagwa noted that customs-related taxes contributed approximately 31% of the nation’s total revenue in 2025. He remarked, “Strong and well-equipped customs authorities are indispensable to national and international security, public health, and trade facilitation.” This reflects a broader recognition of how customs can bolster economic resilience and development across the region.

One of the most striking demonstrations of commitment to safeguarding society came from the community itself. Engaged locals voiced their readiness to collaborate with customs officers, serving as vigilant sentinels against illicit trade. This partnership was seen as essential in addressing challenges posed by smuggling and unsafe goods, in line with the WCO’s call for community involvement.

Celebrations concluded with a renewed commitment from officials and the public alike to champion customs’ protective mandate. The event not only highlighted customs as a crucial pillar in national development but also reinforced the notion that every border is a gateway to opportunities.

By Chenayi Mack-Maponga

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) hosted its 2^nd Annual General meeting in the Capital on 02 December 2025 during which the Pension Fund ZIMRA Board Chairperson, Ms Cynthia Tendai Mugwira, highlighted to members present that the Fund continued to expand and invest through various means including the purchase of land in the Capital.

“ZIMRA has consistently been complying with the best practice of corporate governance, which require the fund to convene an Annual General Meeting. 2024 has been a remarkable year and I am pleased to report that despite the challenges, the pension fund has made progress in ensuring it delivers on its mandate, said Ms Mugwira.

Speaking at the same occasion; Mr Samuel Sithole thanked members that had joined both physically and online for attending the AGM.

“You will appreciate that one of the key milestones achieved in 2024 was to come up with a working model for our people,“ said Mr Sithole.

Pension Fund member Mr Llyod Karonga said, “The vision is to ensure that staff members are empowered before they leave the Authority and own properties. We need to increase members’ benefits and reduce poverty after retirement. The good thing is that contributions and investments are now in both USD and local currency with our Knockmalloch Cluster Development in progress as well as the Somerby Land purchase which is our new baby.”

In attendance at the AGM were pension fund board members, ZIMRA Management team and staff members, ZIMRA divisional representatives. Old Mutual and IPEC members.

Old Mutual is the current administrator that ensures that the fund is administered professionally having a track record in managing fixed properties, student accommodation and various private equity investments.

Victoria Falls — The curtain came down on the 12th Competent Authorities Conference of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes, which took place from 22 – 23 September 2025, with delegates reaffirming their united determination to strengthen international cooperation, curb illicit financial flows and embrace innovation in pursuit of global tax transparency.

The two-day meeting brought together 130 participants from 55 jurisdictions, further cementing Zimbabwe’s growing role in shaping the international tax agenda.

Opening the conference, Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Honourable David Mnangagwa, underlined the importance of openness in building resilient economies.

“Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of resilient economies.

This conference has been about exchanging information, building trust and renewing our shared commitment to a financial system that serves people, not secrecy,” he said.

Deputy Minister Mnangagwa also noted Zimbabwe’s alignment with global best practice through key reforms, including joining the Multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters (MAAC), endorsing the Yaoundé Declaration, strengthening beneficial ownership frameworks, and preparing for the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI).

“These steps reflect Zimbabwe’s conviction that domestic resource mobilisation is the foundation of sustainable development,” he added.

Throughout the sessions, participants examined billions lost annually to illicit financial flows, underscoring the urgency of stronger cooperation to trace hidden wealth, enforce tax laws and restore public trust.

Discussions covered global risks to exchange of information standards, lessons from peer reviews of the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) and the new enhanced monitoring process for jurisdictions implementing Exchange of Information on Request (EOIR).

Preparations for upcoming confidentiality and data safeguard assessments were also spotlighted, with consensus that robust data protection frameworks are essential for credible cross-border exchanges.

Emerging challenges dominated part of the agenda, including the tax risks posed by digital assets and steps towards implementing the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) — designed to keep global transparency standards abreast of technological advances.

ZIMRA Commissioner General, Ms. Regina Chinamasa, welcomed participants by stressing the broader value of tax transparency.

“Tax transparency is not just a compliance obligation but an enabler of sustainable development. Every dollar lost to tax evasion denies citizens essential services such as schools, hospitals and infrastructure,” she said.

Closing the conference, Ms. Zayda Manatta, Head of the Global Forum Secretariat, praised the commitment shown by delegates and encouraged them to sustain the momentum.

“The strength of the Global Forum lies in its members’ collective will to implement standards consistently and inclusively.

This meeting not only reinforced technical exchanges but also deepened professional networks, which are critical for effective cooperation,” she noted.

The gathering concluded with a resounding pledge to deepen collaboration, enhance exchange of information systems and empower competent authorities across jurisdictions.

Delegates left Victoria Falls with renewed commitment to tax transparency and fairness as vital tools for sustainable development.

Data Privacy Week serves as a timely reminder that ZIMRA’s mandate is built entirely on trust. Every day, the Authority process vast volumes of sensitive personal data. Safeguarding this data is not optional it is a legal, ethical and institutional responsibility.

To support responsible data handling and provide dedicated oversight of how personal information is managed, the Authority has two registered Data Protection Officers.

Who Are ZIMRA’s Data Protection Officers?

Tinashe C. Makambaire – DPO	Margaret Chirimumimba – DPO

 Why Were DPOs Appointed at ZIMRA?

Under the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] and SI 155 of 2024, all entities that process information are required to appoint a Data Protection Officer. This role goes beyond compliance, it strengthens governance, accountability and public confidence.

What Does a Data Protection Officer Do?

The DPO does not perform IT or enforcement duties. The role sits within the Corporate Risk and Compliance Division focusing on oversight, guidance and assurance to ensure personal data is handled responsibly. They serve as the official liaison with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) and data subjects.

Why This Matters to You

ZIMRA’s Data Protection Officers are available to support you, protect your rights and address any data protection concerns that you might have as a data subject.

For inquiries, guidance, or to report a suspected data incident, please contact the Data Protection Office directly:

 📧 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) participated as part of the @ZimTreasury delegation that made oral submissions to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Budget, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion in October 2025.

During the engagement, ZIMRA reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to meeting the 2025 revenue targets, underscoring that all hands are on deck in driving national resource mobilisation.

Looking ahead, ZIMRA highlighted that 2026 will be defined by a focus on digitalisation, sector-based taxpayer education, and the use of artificial intelligence in tax administration to enhance efficiency and broaden the taxpayer base.

ZIMRA remains committed to building a smarter, more transparent and service-driven institution that supports Zimbabwe’s growth and development.

What is Iveri online internet banking Payment?

The https://esw.co.zw/ online payment system now has an Iveri option to pay online using Visa cards for USD payments

Clients who elect to use the added convenience will still need to do the batching process to convert their assessment(s) into the online readable format. After completing, the batching process there will be a Visa icon, which will take you to the payment page

Completion of the payment process will also allow the client to generate and print the receipt automatically without having to visit the ZIMRA Offices.

When can I start transacting?

The payment platform will be effective beginning 01 September 2025.

What are the benefits?

• Reduced cost of doing business as one can do the transaction in the comfort of their homes or offices
• No more queueing at ZIMRA Payment offices
• Real time payments
• It’s easy and convenient
• No risk of moving around with cash for your payments

Contact us on

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

By Inzwirashe C. Muwonwa, ZIMRA International Desk

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) will join the global customs community in commemorating International Customs Day on 26 January 2026, an annual event that shines a spotlight on the vital role customs administrations play in safeguarding societies while facilitating legitimate trade.

Observed worldwide under the World Customs Organization (WCO), International Customs Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the evolving responsibilities of customs authorities in a rapidly changing global environment.

This year’s theme, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” highlights vigilance, professionalism and dedication as pillars in protecting communities, economies and borders.

Smuggling of illegal goods and circumvention of taxes remain a major challenge in Zimbabwe.

ZIMRA’s enforcement operations in 2025 focused on curbing illicit trade and protecting public revenue. Many of the seized goods were contraband illegally imported to avoid payment of customs duties and taxes, undermining national revenue collection, distorting fair trade and exposing consumers to unregulated products.

Among the intercepted items were alcoholic beverages, meat and meat products, hardware and electrical goods, fridges, soft drinks and other foodstuffs. Second-hand clothing, gold, pharmaceuticals, cannabis, skin-lightening creams, cement, shoes, new clothing and motor vehicles were also commonly smuggled.

“These seizures reflect ZIMRA’s unwavering commitment to protecting society and ensuring fair trade,” said Ms Regina Chinamasa, Commissioner General of ZIMRA.

“We remain vigilant at all ports of entry and within domestic markets, using technology, intelligence-led operations and collaboration with other agencies to safeguard public revenue and uphold compliance.”

This year’s International Customs Day will be commemorated at Plumtree Border Post, highlighting ZIMRA’s customer-focused approach, adoption of digital solutions and firm stance against smuggling, fraud and other cross-border crimes.

Through technology-driven reforms, intelligence-led enforcement and continuous staff capacity building, the Authority aligns with international best practices while responding to Zimbabwe’s local economic realities.

Beyond revenue collection, ZIMRA protects society from harmful and prohibited goods, supports national security and contributes to economic growth.

International Customs Day is therefore not only a celebration but also a reaffirmation of the Authority’s pledge to operate with integrity, transparency and professionalism.

As Zimbabwe positions itself as a competitive player in regional and global trade, ZIMRA’s role remains pivotal.

The observance of International Customs Day serves as a reminder that effective customs administration is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration with government agencies, traders and the public to build safe borders and a prosperous nation.

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) recently held a high-level Strategic Planning Meeting in Mutare, bringing together the Board, Executive Management, Senior Leadership, and representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion (MoFEDIP) and economic consultants.

In his opening remarks, the ZIMRA Board Chairman welcomed participants to what he described as a defining gathering at a pivotal moment in ZIMRA’s journey and the nation’s economic transformation. He reminded delegates that this was not an ordinary meeting but a session of reflection and forward planning, aimed at shaping the future of revenue administration and Zimbabwe’s economic growth over the next five years.

“We are here not simply to plan,” he said, “but to shape the future of revenue administration and Zimbabwe’s economic growth.”

Reflecting on the Journey (2021–2025)

The Chairman described the 2021–2025 Strategic Plan as a period of achievement and transformation. ZIMRA fulfilled its pledge to modernise by embedding systems such as TaRMS, SAP, Fiscalisation, ASYCUDA, and ECTS, moving from a manual-dependent organisation to a digital-driven authority.

“This is a milestone,” he said, “but it is only the beginning. The real question is: what greater difference will ZIMRA make in the next five years?”

He highlighted that the rebased GDP reshapes Zimbabwe’s economic landscape and presents both opportunities and challenges. With the national target to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio from 14.5 percent in 2025 to 22 percent by 2030, ZIMRA must rethink domestic resource mobilisation. Nearly three-quarters of the economy remains informal, and strategies must draw this sector into the mainstream while promoting inclusion, innovation, and empowerment.

The Chairman called for a holistic approach to taxation that supports economic growth, fairness, and compliance, ensuring all taxpayers contribute to building a stronger Zimbabwe.

The Vision for 2026–2030

Looking ahead, he outlined an ambitious vision to build a ZIMRA that is modern, digital, trusted and people-centred. The Authority aims to broaden the tax base, integrate the informal sector and strengthen compliance through data-driven intelligence and advanced technologies.

The vision includes growing the tax-to-GDP ratio to 22 percent by 2030, supported by AI-powered compliance and risk management systems. A sustainable funding model, completion of a modern Head Office, and development of a skilled, ethical workforce will reinforce resilience and service excellence. ZIMRA will also embed environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and facilitate seamless trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Embracing Artificial Intelligence

The Chairman described AI as a paradigm shift that will transform ZIMRA’s operations. AI will enable real-time monitoring, detect risks, simplify compliance, reduce business costs and improve transparency, while strengthening the workforce through enhanced decision-making and digital skill development.

“This is more than an upgrade. It will position ZIMRA as a leader in digital tax administration on the continent.”

He emphasised that ZIMRA’s strategy must align with national priorities, particularly NDS2, and respond to the evolving macroeconomic environment. Insights from MoFEDIP will guide the refinement of sustainable revenue mobilisation strategies. Once NDS2 is finalised, ZIMRA will reconvene to ensure full alignment with national goals.

Addressing corruption and system abuse, the Chairman reiterated ZIMRA’s zero-tolerance stance. He urged staff to safeguard the integrity of systems and revenue, strengthen supervision, enforce accountability and close gaps that enable misconduct.

“We must lead by example and uphold the trust that the nation has placed in us.”

The Chairman called on all participants to emerge with a clear roadmap, defined milestones, and a unified vision for a stronger, smarter, and more effective ZIMRA.

“If we succeed here, Zimbabwe will succeed. If we build boldly here, the nation will rise boldly there. Together, Government, taxpayers, business and development partners, we must shape a ZIMRA that is modern, formidable, AI-driven and faithful to the people it serves.”

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Deeds, Company Registration and Intellectual Property to strengthen transparency, enhance compliance, and improve service delivery.

This strategic partnership marks a major step towards building a modern, connected public administration system where institutions seamlessly share critical information.

Through the MOU, ZIMRA will be able to access company registration and property records to verify declarations, detect undeclared assets and ensure that more businesses and individuals are captured fairly within the tax net.

The collaboration will also help reduce duplication of processes, ease doing business and provide faster, more reliable services to the public.

The integration of systems fosters trust, accountability and it nurtures a culture of honesty and responsibility in fulfilling tax obligations.

This partnership underscores ZIMRA’s commitment to domestic resource mobilisation as the backbone of national development.

The milestone ensures that every dollar due is collected efficiently and fairly, strengthening the foundation for Building Zimbabwe.