East and Southern Africa Face Tax Crisis, Experts Warn

Civil society groups and policy experts are demanding urgent tax reforms across two major African regions. The call comes from organizations in the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). They say stronger "Domestic Resource Mobilisation" is needed. This term refers to how governments raise their own money, primarily through taxes. The groups argue that current systems are not effective. They believe reforms are critical for funding essential public services. Without these changes, they warn, nations will struggle to pay for healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Reliance on foreign aid and debt could also increase. The push highlights a growing regional focus on financial independence. The goal is to build more self-sufficient economies.