Welcome to Africa Online & Publications Library

Sign In

Cameroon’s government and citizenry at odds over a 0.2% mobile money tax

Cameroon’s government and citizenry at odds over a 0.2% mobile money tax

Posted on 2022-01-09 13:33:34 / by NGWA Brain Shu

Abstract


Following a new government legislation, Cameroonians started paying a 0.2% tax on mobile money transactions on January 1, 2022. This 0.2% tax on money transfers and withdrawals has been making headlines since its implementation. Critics have described this tax as regressive, arguing that it will slow down financial inclusion. The tax has its implications on the government of Cameroon, Cameroonian citizens especially mobile money users, Mobile Telephone Network (MTN) & Orange mobile network service providers, and the entire banking sector. For example, it disproportionately affects middle- and low-income taxpayers since it is seen as a double or continuous tax. Amongst several recommendations, the government can reduce the tax option from 0.2% to 0.1%, but with MTN and Orange Cameroon adjusting to a reduction of their charge rates. Alternatively, the tax could be imposed either only on sending or on withdrawal and not on both as the latter clearly indicates a double tax regime which is disparaging and antithetic to social and economic wellbeing of the citizens. A possible outcome could be that struggling students will not have to “rob Peter to pay Paul” because they need to augment fees chopped by “some taxes”.


Share:
Categories: Policy briefs

About the Author


NGWA Brain Shu
NGWA Brain Shu
Joined 3 years ago

1 Publications

Short bio   Research interests Social Sciences: Psychology (Educational Psychology, Industria/ Organizational Psychology, Counselling), Management (Human Resource Management, Occupational Health and Safety) languages English contact details Tel: +237 670 089 264 Email: ngwabrain@gmail.com

More from author