Airtel Money has entered into a landmark partnership with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and Stanbic Bank to revolutionise how Ugandans meet their tax and fee obligations.
The integration makes it possible to pay taxes, renew passports, secure business licences, or settle any URA payment directly from a mobile phone — no queues, no paperwork, no lost time.
“With this service, fulfilling your civic duties is now as simple as reaching for your phone. No queues. No paperwork. No wasted leave days,” said Japhet Aritho, Managing Director of Airtel Money, at the launch held at the Serena Hotel. “Whether it’s PAYE, VAT, customs duties, or urgent passport renewals, you can pay instantly via the MyAirtel App or by dialling 1854*7#. ”
Once logged in, customers select the payment type, enter details, and confirm — all within minutes.
Mr. Aritho underscored Airtel Money’s own commitment to tax compliance, noting the company contributed UGX 133.4 billion in taxes in 2024. “We understand the role taxes play in national development, and we’re making it easier for every Ugandan to do their part,” he added.
The service extends beyond taxes, enabling students to pay tuition, entrepreneurs to obtain trading licences, and businesses to fulfil statutory obligations without leaving home or the office.
Inclusion and Growth
URA Assistant Commissioner IT, James Odongo, praised the partnership as a step forward in financial inclusion and efficient service delivery. “By leveraging Airtel’s wide network and digital platforms, more Ugandans can meet their obligations conveniently, securely, and on time,” he said.
“We believe in working through partnerships, and we deeply appreciate this initiative from Airtel Money, especially for its inclusion of micro-payers.”
Paula Kotse, Head of Transaction Banking at Stanbic Bank, highlighted the integration as a boost for small businesses and a catalyst for domestic revenue mobilisation. “This milestone will drive financial inclusion and enhance domestic tax collection in Uganda,” she noted.
She added: “Through our partnership with Airtel Money, we are making it faster and safer for taxpayers to fulfil their obligations. We are also unlocking the potential for small businesses to actively participate in the economy.
Raymond Sekatawa, Airtel Money Segment Head for Taxes, emphasised the synergy between the three partners: “This collaboration ensures that tax collection is simpler and more accessible for everyone, including micro-payers.”
With 335,000 Airtel Money agents across Uganda, even those in remote areas can now make payments easily. “This means that even someone in a remote area can now pay taxes easily. What was once a complex process has now been simplified,” Mr. Aritho said.
David Birungi, Airtel Uganda PR Manager, says that every SIM card, in any phone, can now be part of fulfilling this civic duty. “The service is accessible via USSD, and it’s also available on the Airtel Mobile App,” he adds.
