Accra, June 18, GNA - The Steering Committee of the African Tax Commissioners from seven countries, has begun its second meeting in Accra to deliberate on tax issues.

The two-day meeting will also discuss the final draft Constitution of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), which would be inaugurated by the end of the year, draft a communication strategy and develop strategies to increase membership of the Forum. A statement from the hosts, Internal Revenue Service, said the first meeting of the committee was held in Cape Town, South Africa last February.

Members of the steering committee are Ghana, Botswana, South Africa, Uganda, Rwanda, Nigeria and Cameroon. The statement said the creation of ATAF was to strengthen tax administration in Africa, with the aim of creating a platform to share experiences, encourage and support new partnerships and promote co-operation.

It will also formulate a new direction for African Tax Policy and Administration; provide a road map for an African programme of tax administration, which will reflect African needs and strategies and help African governments to meet their monetary commitment for national development and thereby reduce dependency on donors. 18 June 09