Niël Terblanché
The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) recovered N$3.4 million after receiving information from whistleblowers through its Spill the Beans hotline.
According to Yarukeekuro Ndorokaze, the spokesperson of NamRA, the whistle blower platform was launched in partnership with Deloitte Namibia in May 2024
“The initiative has been instrumental in enhancing transparency and accountability within the country’s tax system,” he said in a statement released on Wednesday.
He added that since its inception, Spill the Beans has received 60 reports addressing concerns such as fraud, corruption, tax evasion, alleged money laundering, drug smuggling, and unethical behaviour.
“These reports have led to assessments totalling N$15.8 million, with N$3.4 million successfully recovered from three companies in November and December 2024 alone,” he said.
According to Ndorokaze, the whistleblower hotline is accessible to NamRA employees, stakeholders, and the public, providing a secure and confidential platform to report issues such as corruption, fraud, bribery, tax evasion, money laundering, smuggling, drug trafficking, or any other misconduct.
“To ensure neutrality and confidentiality, the hotline is managed by Deloitte Namibia as an independent consultant,” he said.
Ndorokaze added that reports submitted through the hotline assist NamRA in upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and allow for the prompt and effective addressing of any violations. Individuals can report anonymously and without fear of retaliation through the following channels:
He also said that NamRA’s commitment to combating tax evasion, fraud, and unethical practices is further reinforced by this initiative.
“The agency encourages all taxpayers and stakeholders to actively utilise the whistleblower hotline, emphasising that the public plays a vital role in upholding integrity and accountability within Namibia’s tax system by reporting suspicious activities,” he said.
Ndorokaze reiterated the importance of public participation in maintaining an ethical governance framework and responsible tax administration.
He assured whistleblowers that all reports are treated with the highest level of confidentiality, ensuring that individuals can report anonymously and without fear of retaliation.
“The successful recovery of N$3.4 million not only demonstrates the effectiveness of the whistleblower hotline but also underscores NamRA’s dedication to fostering a culture of transparency and compliance,” he said
He added that by actively engaging the public in reporting misconduct, NamRA aims to strengthen tax compliance and promote ethical behaviour across all sectors.
For more information or to report any suspicious activities, individuals are encouraged to contact NamRA through the provided channels.
These include a toll-free number: 0800 535 777, email: namra@tip-offs.com or the revenue agency’s website which can be accessed at www.tip-offs.com