By Philip Antoh
The Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, has reiterated President John Dramani Mahama’s promise to create a business-friendly environment that supports local businesses in their growth.
Mr. Sarpong stated that, based on this commitment, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government will keep working to eliminate all unnecessary taxes that hinder business development in the nation.
Speaking at a ceremony where the KGL Group contributed over GH¢153 million in taxes, Commissioner-General, Mr. Sarpong declared that the time for selective compliance must come to an end if Ghana aims for sustainable growth.
He clarified that paying taxes is not just a legal obligation but a patriotic responsibility that shows a citizen’s dedication to national advancement.
He pointed out that the strength of Ghana’s economy relies on how responsibly individuals and businesses fulfill their tax duties.
Mr. Sarpong encouraged workers, traders, entrepreneurs, and large companies to view tax payments as a direct investment in the nation’s progress, emphasizing that the government’s ability to provide quality roads, schools, healthcare, and other vital services depends on domestic revenue.
He stressed that even the smallest contributions are significant, asserting that widespread compliance, rather than just a few large payments, will lead to genuine transformation.
“Ghana’s development cannot be outsourced,” he stated. “It must be financed by Ghanaians who have faith in the future of this country.”
The GRA head also took the opportunity to remind taxpayers that the month of April is a voluntary tax compliance month where everyone has the opportunity to regularize their tax status and avoid penalties while making a meaningful contribution to national growth.
He assured the public that the Authority is implementing reforms to simplify procedures, reduce obstacles, and create a more business-friendly tax environment that promotes voluntary compliance.
Mr. Sarpong urged businesses, particularly local companies, to take the lead by showing integrity and responsibility in tax issues, stating that compliance fosters credibility and trust.
The payment made by KGL Group, he pointed out, should not be viewed as a one-time event but as a standard for others to follow.
In support of this view, Alex Dadey, Executive Chairman of KGL Group, referred to tax compliance as a sign of corporate values and accountability to the community.
He emphasized that businesses cannot expect support, incentives, or respect from the government and the public if they ignore their own duties.
“Responsible companies should set an example,” he remarked, noting that paying taxes is one of the most essential ways to aid national development.
The event ultimately conveyed a clear and urgent message: building Ghana requires a collective effort, grounded in a strong culture of tax compliance.
With the GRA enhancing education and reforms, the duty now falls on every Ghanaian to act by understanding their taxes, filing correctly, and paying on time so that together, the nation can reach the progress it desires.
Since April 2, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama has officially signed bills to abolish several taxes in Ghana to reduce the financial burden on citizens.
Key taxes officially scrapped include the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), the 10% Betting Tax on winnings, the Emissions Levy, the Covid-19 Health Recovery Levy, and 21% VAT on non-life insurance.