Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) Commissioner General Dingani Banda says Christians have no spiritual excuse for dodging taxes, because the Bible is clear, “If you owe taxes, pay taxes.”
Speaking at Bread of Life Church international ‘s Men of Destiny Conference recently, Banda quoted Romans 13:6–7 and Matthew 22:21 to show that paying taxes is a biblical mandate.
“Even Jesus said give Caesar what belongs to Caesar,” he reminded the congregation, drawing laughter and knowing nods.
He added that avoiding taxes falls into the category of “dishonest scales” which Proverbs 11:1 says the Lord detests.
According to Banda, ZRA is actively working to broaden its outreach to citizens in every sector including church groups and community institutions to promote tax literacy.
“The same energy we use in prayer, let’s also use it to understand our tax obligations,” he said.
Utilising the platform, Banda emphasised the role of paying tax and its impact to break free from over dependency on aid.
He said it was time for the country to break its national poverty mindset of over-relying on borrowed funds and donor aid.
Banda compared Zambia’s financial state to a man constantly asking his neighbors for salt, sugar, and even meals.
“Imagine going around your neighbourhood begging for nshima every day. That’s us, as a country, when we don’t pay taxes,” he said.
Banda told the men in Church that government aims to increase domestic revenue to 21 percent of GDP, and reduce dependence on external financing.
He highlighted that ZRA’s revenue collection efforts have helped fund free education, increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and rural clinics.
“The Bible says God gives seed to the sower. Well, your taxes are that seed, brothers,” added Banda.
Kalemba June 29, 2025
