On 15 September 2026, the Burundi Revenue Authority (OBR), with financial backing from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and in partnership with the Burundi Federal Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CFCIB), conducted a taxpayer sensitization workshop in Nyanza commune, Burunga Province. The session focused on the adoption of two flagship digital platforms: e-KORI, an integrated tax collection and non-tax revenue management system, and Umutangakori II, a module designed to streamline tax declaration and payment processes. This initiative forms part of the OBR’s broader digital transformation strategy aimed at expanding the tax base, reducing compliance costs, and curbing revenue leakage through enhanced electronic filing and invoicing. The workshop aligns with the government’s Public Financial Management Reform Program and the OBR’s 2024-2028 Strategic Plan, which prioritize digitalization as a lever for voluntary compliance and transparency.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory Digital Migration: Taxpayers in Nyanza are now required to transition from manual declaration methods to the e-KORI platform for all tax obligations, including VAT, income tax, and customs duties. The OBR has set a clear timeline for full migration, after which manual submissions will no longer be accepted, and non-compliant taxpayers may face penalties under the revised tax procedures code. The platform also enables real-time tracking of tax liabilities and automated reminders, reducing the risk of unintentional defaults.
- Electronic Invoicing Enforcement: The Umutangakori II module integrates with certified electronic invoicing machines (EIM), making it compulsory for traders to issue digital invoices for every transaction. This measure directly targets informal trade practices and underreporting, with the OBR emphasizing that failure to issue EIM-generated invoices will trigger audits and potential sanctions. The system also facilitates cross-verification of sales data between buyers and sellers, strengthening the VAT credit mechanism.
- Capacity Building and Stakeholder Collaboration: The workshop underscored the OBR’s collaborative approach, leveraging the CFCIB’s network to reach small and medium enterprises. The AfDB’s support highlights the international community’s endorsement of Burundi’s domestic resource mobilization agenda. Taxpayers were guided through hands-on demonstrations of platform navigation, registration procedures, and troubleshooting, ensuring practical readiness for the digital shift. The OBR also announced a dedicated helpdesk and mobile support units to assist taxpayers during the transition period.
Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.
Source: Read Official Announcement