A Crucible of IoT Applications and Services and the Gambia Revenue Generation

The study investigated the relationship between Internet of Things (IoT) applications and services and The Gambia revenue generation, tax evasion and tax compliance respectively. It identified the challenges impeding the adoption and implementation of IoT applications and services in the revenue generation processes by the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA). Both primary and secondary data were used in the study. Questionnaire and interview were used to generate the primary data. The study population (2188) comprised senior and mid-tier management personnel from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs (MoFEA), staff members of The Gambia Revenue Authority, and the corporate taxpayers. The sampling approach used in this study was multistage. Personnel from the MoFEA and GRA were purposively selected, while corporate taxpayers were randomly selected. Their populations were then divided into various strata to ensure fair representation. Respondents were randomly picked from each stratum. To ensure an appropriate sample size, 327 individuals were selected. Data obtained were analysed using multiple regression, correlation coefficient, and simple regression analysis. Qualitative analyses were done on the interview responses. The study revealed that connectivity, networking, and data collection improve revenue generation, while increased IoT adoption and higher data utilisation and infrastructure investment reduce tax evasion and boost tax compliance. However, implementation of the IoT has encountered challenges in the form of technological barriers, financial constraints, and skill gaps. In view of these, investment must be made in enhancing connectivity and networking infrastructure, training staff in data analytics and cyber-security to optimise IoT data usage and boost IoT adoption through inducements and awareness programs. The study concluded that IOT applications and services are in the right direction to revolutionise The Gambia revenue generation.