The Tax Officer Capacity Building training initiative, held in Washington, DC, from March 26 to April 8, 2024, was a resounding success. It offered participants invaluable insights into the latest developments in tax strategies, planning, and implementation.
Led by Mr. Thierry Tubajika, a seasoned chartered accountant with over 15 years of experience in American and international taxation, the first week of training provided participants with a deep dive into the intricate nuances of tax laws and best practices in tax compliance and management.
The second week featured a series of high-profile events, notably the visit of the Directorate General of Taxes (DGI) delegation to the United States Chamber of Commerce. Accompanied by Mr. Emmanuel Kalumbata, Director General of Awakening Hub, along with two senior advisors from the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mr. Celestin Lombe and Mr. Dominique Lubilu, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions on cooperation opportunities between the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo, focusing particularly on tax-related matters. The delegation was warmly received by Mr. Guevera Yao, Vice President of the U.S.-Africa Business Center. 
The second week culminated in an intensive working session with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the US federal agency responsible for tax collection. This direct engagement with IRS practitioners provided participants with firsthand insights into tax processes and best practices, enhancing their skills and expertise. 
The knowledge gained from this training will be of immense value to the DGI in fulfilling its mandate. By leveraging best practices and optimizing resources, tax officers will play a crucial role in enhancing tax collection and ensuring the effective implementation of tax policies, thereby fostering economic and social development in the Democratic Republic of Congo.