President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized the crucial link between tax mobilization and national development, stressing that revenue collection is vital for investing in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social services.
Hence the need for an aggressive tax mobilization drive.
Speaking on behalf of the president John Dramani Mahama at the official launch of Sustained National Tax Education Program and Modified Taxation Scheme (MTS) in Accra organized by the Ghana Revenue Authority, the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah added that, taxation should not be seen as a burden but everyone’s little contribution which when put together, benefits all.
He said, taxes are the foundation for essential infrastructure like roads, schools, and hospitals and therefore urged citizens and businesses to contribute their fair share
The Sustained National Tax Education Program and Modified Taxation Scheme is a simplified approach for the collection of taxes within the informal sector which is fairer and more convenient scheme.
The Program which is categorized into three parts caters for businesses with fixed tax, those with flat rate of 3% tax on total annual sales, and the businesses after deducting related expenses.
He however noted the need for accountability and transparency in tax mobilization is key.
The Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Anthony Sarpong said, raising domestic revenue for national development is not debatable and the need for tax compliance is the duty of every citizen.
He bemoaned the poor rate of domestic tax mobilization which is one of the lowest on the continent.
This he said weakens the wheel of infrastructural development and in turn affects job creation and other needs of the people.
He is therefore calling on Ghanaians to appreciate the importance of voluntary tax compliance as a patriotic duty vital to national development.
He encouraged the public not to see tax payment not as a burden, but as an investment into Ghana’s future.
Mr. Sarpong noted that the government and the GRA are working to simplify tax processes, promote transparency, and strengthen trust between taxpayers and the state.
Deputy Finance Minister, Thomas Nyarko Ampem noted that, tax compliance is not a penalty for wrong doing but an opportunity to create job opportunities for all.
However, ‘only a few carries the burden”.
He urged each citizen to see tax compliance as a responsibility.
He further called for transparency, accountability to ensure trust among the populace
He also commended the GRA’s efforts to widen the tax net by bringing more people from the informal sector.
Mr. Nyarko Ampem said when citizens see the real benefits of their taxes in improved services and development, they will be more willing to comply voluntarily and help Ghana to build a stronger, self-reliant economy.
Godfred Sey @Ahotoronline.com