By Joseph Momoh, Reporter
Freetown, July 17, 2025 — The Lebanese Embassy in Freetown hosted a high-level diplomatic breakfast meeting attended by the Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura. The event gathered sixteen Ambassadors and Heads of Missions accredited to Sierra Leone to discuss pressing tax administration issues affecting diplomatic operations in the country.
In his opening remarks, His Excellency Jens Kraus-Masse, the German Ambassador and Head of the Diplomatic Corps, extended a warm welcome to Mrs. Bangura, expressing gratitude for her participation in such a vital discussion.
Commissioner General Bangura addressed various concerns raised by the diplomatic community, providing an in-depth explanation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) certificate and refund processes, particularly in light of the recent 2025 Finance Act. She assured attendees that current applications for GST exemptions are being processed efficiently, with reimbursements set to follow once consolidated listings are finalized. Additionally, she clarified the application of withholding tax provisions relevant to diplomatic transactions.
The discussion led by Bangura focused on critical tax processes, including the timely issuance of GST certificates, withholding tax procedures, customs clearance processes, and tax exemptions for diplomatic missions. She emphasized the need for enhanced clarity and efficiency in implementing the Tax and Duty Exemption Act 2023, particularly regarding entitlements for diplomatic staff.
Recognizing the importance of expediting customs clearance, the Commissioner General highlighted the role of clearing and forwarding agencies. She urged missions to collaborate closely with compliant and vetted agents to ensure seamless processing. Bangura reiterated the NRA’s commitment to promoting transparency, efficiency, and compliance while upholding diplomatic privileges responsibly.
The meeting concluded with a collective agreement on the necessity of sustained collaboration among the diplomatic community, the NRA, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant stakeholders, including the Trade Union. This cooperation is deemed essential in addressing ongoing challenges related to customs clearance, tax exemptions, and the broader fiscal framework governing diplomatic operations in Sierra Leone.
Notable dignitaries present included 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.
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