Kellen Kiconco Praised by Traders for Strengthening Government Dialogue on Tax Reforms

Written by TheDayspring.in | 28 October 2025

The business community across Uganda is expressing heartfelt appreciation to Senior Presidential Advisor on Tax Affairs, Mrs. Kellen Kiconco, for her instrumental role in building a bridge of understanding between the government and traders over long-standing tax challenges. Her efforts, described by many as timely and transformative, have sparked optimism that Uganda’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) could finally witness a fair and supportive tax environment.

The praise follows a high-level meeting convened by Mrs. Kiconco that brought together leaders of various traders’ associations from across the nation. The discussions focused on critical issues such as tax compliance, policy reforms, and the harmonization of business operations with Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) guidelines. The event marked a rare moment of unity and collaboration between the private sector and government representatives.

President of the Uganda National Traders Alliance (UNATA), Katongole Godfrey, commended Mrs. Kiconco for her exceptional approach, saying, “Mrs. Kiconco has been instrumental. She has not only listened to our grievances but also ensured our voices are heard by the right people in government. This kind of mobilization and mediation is what we need.” His remarks echoed the sentiments of numerous trade association representatives who have long sought a structured platform to engage policymakers constructively.

For years, traders across Uganda have voiced concerns about what they describe as “burdensome tax measures,” often implemented without sufficient consultation. Many small traders argue that abrupt changes in tax policy, combined with high compliance costs, have led to business closures and reduced profitability. However, with the government’s renewed commitment to dialogue through Kiconco’s leadership, there is growing confidence that meaningful reforms may be on the horizon.
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A New Chapter in Government–Business Relations

At the center of the discussions was the question of how Uganda can reform its tax system to promote business growth while ensuring sustainable revenue generation. Mrs. Kiconco emphasized that taxation should not be viewed as a punishment but as a partnership between the government and the private sector. Her message resonated with both policymakers and traders who have often felt alienated from the decision-making process.

In her remarks during the meeting, Mrs. Kiconco stated, “Traders associations leaders must overcome divisions and speak with one voice to achieve a meaningful resolution to their concerns. By amplifying their collective bargaining power, strengthening advocacy efforts, and building credibility, a unified front will allow them to address shared industry problems more effectively than they could individually.”

This statement underscored the government’s expectation that traders organize under strong, unified bodies that can represent collective interests rather than fragmented demands. It also signals the government’s willingness to engage constructively with organized groups that demonstrate responsibility and a commitment to compliance.

The emphasis on unity comes at a crucial time. Uganda’s business sector remains a cornerstone of its economic stability, yet it faces persistent challenges including rising operational costs, inflationary pressures, and post-pandemic recovery constraints. Traders have long requested more predictable taxation frameworks and better communication from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).
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Constructive Engagement and Policy Reform

One of the central issues raised during the meeting was the implementation of certain tax policies that traders described as restrictive. Association leaders pointed out that sudden changes—such as digital tax enforcement systems, electronic invoicing mandates, and new customs procedures—have often caught businesses unprepared. While these measures aim to improve transparency and widen the tax base, they have also increased operational burdens, particularly for small traders who lack access to digital tools.

Mrs. Kiconco acknowledged these concerns, assuring attendees that her office would work closely with relevant government bodies to ensure a smoother transition. “Tax reform should be inclusive and gradual,” she noted. “We cannot expect compliance without creating understanding. The goal is to simplify processes, educate traders, and foster cooperation rather than confrontation.”

This pragmatic tone has been widely appreciated. Many trade leaders observed that, for the first time in recent years, there is a sense of being heard and valued as partners in Uganda’s economic growth.

Dr. Musoke Thadius, Chairperson of the National Entrepreneurs Traders Association (UETA), expressed optimism about the process. “We are hopeful,” he said. “This is just the beginning of a fruitful partnership. Our dialogue with Mrs. Kiconco has been constructive and has laid the groundwork for potential reforms that could transform the business climate.”
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Building Bridges Through Dialogue

Kiconco’s approach is marked by inclusivity, listening sessions, and mutual respect. Her meeting with the traders was not a one-time event but part of a broader initiative to create continuous engagement channels between government agencies and private enterprises.

According to participants, the discussions extended beyond taxation into broader topics such as digitalization of trade, transparency, and the importance of local manufacturing. Many traders expressed their desire to see government-backed programs that can help them modernize their businesses and improve competitiveness.

“Through these engagements, we are beginning to see hope,” said Kabagambe Kataike, a Kampala-based business owner. “For a long time, traders felt sidelined. But now, there’s someone listening, someone who understands both the technical and emotional side of our struggles. It’s no longer about confrontation; it’s about cooperation.”
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The Role of the Uganda Revenue Authority

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) remains central to this ongoing dialogue. Historically, traders have accused the URA of enforcing tax policies too aggressively, often resulting in tensions and protests. However, under the new framework promoted by Kiconco, there is a shift toward mutual understanding, education, and trust-building.

In the meeting, representatives from the URA were present, emphasizing that the institution’s mission aligns with business growth. URA officials assured traders that reforms would be pursued with greater consultation and a focus on compliance through awareness rather than punishment.

Observers note that this alignment between the Presidential Advisory Office and URA could pave the way for a modern tax culture rooted in transparency, accountability, and fairness.
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The Economic Context

Uganda’s economy, like many developing nations, faces the dual challenge of expanding its tax base while maintaining a business-friendly environment. The informal sector, which represents nearly 60% of economic activity, remains largely untaxed or under-taxed. The government’s ongoing push to formalize these enterprises is seen as essential for revenue mobilization, but it must be handled sensitively to avoid stifling entrepreneurship.

Mrs. Kiconco’s leadership has emerged as a balancing force between these competing priorities. Her approach reflects an understanding that sustainable taxation depends on trust, and trust can only be built through open communication.

Economists have praised her efforts as a model of inclusive governance. Dr. Lenny Uganda, a business policy analyst, noted that “What Mrs. Kiconco is doing is more than just tax dialogue—it’s a structural change in how the government perceives traders. She’s institutionalizing empathy in economic governance.”
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A Call for Unity Among Traders

Beyond tax reform, Kiconco’s message carried a deeper social and strategic meaning. She urged traders to set aside regional and organizational divisions and to build a cohesive national front. Fragmentation among trader groups has often diluted their influence, leading to inconsistent representation in national policy discussions.

“Unity is not just about numbers,” Kiconco remarked. “It is about strength, strategy, and credibility. When you speak as one, your message carries power. When you act as one, the nation listens.”

Trade associations have welcomed this call. Several have initiated discussions to form a National Traders Coordinating Forum, an umbrella platform that could represent all business associations collectively. This move, if realized, would mark a significant shift in how private sector advocacy operates in Uganda.
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The Human Side of Taxation

While taxation is often viewed as a financial matter, the meeting also touched upon its human and social dimensions. Many traders described how unpredictable taxes affect livelihoods, family incomes, and community growth. For small business owners, taxation is not just an economic issue—it’s about survival.

Mrs. Kiconco’s empathetic tone resonated deeply with this reality. She spoke about her vision for “taxation with dignity”, where compliance is achieved not through fear but through awareness and shared national purpose.

“Every shilling paid in tax contributes to our children’s education, our healthcare, our roads, and our future,” she said. “But for citizens to contribute willingly, they must believe their contribution is respected and used responsibly.”

Her remarks drew applause and emotional responses from the audience, signaling the power of compassionate governance in addressing systemic challenges.
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Broader Institutional Collaboration

The meeting also attracted representatives from various institutions including Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda Youth Development Link, Makerere University, Texas A&M University, and the European Parliament delegation. Their presence demonstrated that Uganda’s taxation reform discussions are attracting attention beyond national borders.

Academic and international experts emphasized the importance of evidence-based policymaking and the integration of global best practices into Uganda’s fiscal systems. Partnerships with research bodies such as the Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine were cited as examples of how collaborative governance can improve policy outcomes.

Such multi-sectoral dialogue represents a growing trend where taxation, governance, and economic inclusion intersect to drive holistic national development.
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The Road Ahead

Traders and government representatives left the meeting with renewed optimism. Both sides acknowledged that the road to meaningful reform would be long, but the foundation had been laid.

The immediate next steps include forming joint working committees between trade associations and government agencies to identify specific bottlenecks and propose solutions. These committees will also monitor the implementation of agreed-upon recommendations, ensuring accountability and follow-through.

Economists believe that if implemented successfully, this partnership could lead to significant outcomes—such as a simplified tax code, improved compliance systems, and enhanced trust between businesses and the state.
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A New Economic Vision for Uganda

At a broader level, the engagement reflects a new phase in Uganda’s economic evolution—one that seeks balance between growth and fairness. By bridging the long-standing communication gap between government and traders, Mrs. Kellen Kiconco has redefined what leadership in public policy can look like: collaborative, empathetic, and forward-thinking.

In a time when global economies are grappling with inflation and uncertainty, Uganda’s model of dialogue-based reform stands out as an example of how nations can pursue economic transformation without alienating their citizens.

As the meeting concluded, one message echoed through the hall—trust, unity, and cooperation. For the first time in years, Uganda’s traders left with more than promises; they left with a sense of inclusion and hope.

“This is not just a meeting,” said one trader quietly as the event dispersed. “This is history in the making.”
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Specail Thanks to UGANDA NATIONAL TRADERS ALLIANCE (UNATA)