Sunday, 26 April

GRA launches nationwide campaign to boost tax compliance

Business
Staff of GRA on a float

The Ghana Revenue Authority(GRA) has launched a nationwide awareness campaign to promote tax compliance as part of its annual Tax and Good Governance Month, observed every April.

Speaking to the media, Acting Commissioner for the Domestic Tax Revenue Division, Dr. Martin Kolbil-Yamborigya, said the initiative is designed to educate citizens on their responsibility to file income tax returns and meet their tax obligations.

He explained that April is a critical period in the tax calendar, as it marks the deadline for filing returns for individuals and companies whose financial year ends on December 31.

This year’s campaign is on the theme, “Know Your Taxes, Pay Your Taxes, Let Us Build Ghana Together.” Dr. Kolbil-Yamborigya emphasised that national development depends on shared responsibility, noting that government relies heavily on tax revenue to fund infrastructure and public services.

He urged Ghanaians to comply with tax laws by filing and paying their taxes promptly.

As part of the campaign, the Authority has set up tax clinics at taxpayer service centres across the country to assist individuals with filing their returns.

The exercise is being carried out through multiple platforms, including radio and television discussions, seminars, webinars, and one-on-one engagements.

Dr. Kolbil-Yamborigya also disclosed that the GRA has rolled out a three-year sustained tax education programme aimed at deepening public understanding of tax obligations.

He added that beyond statutory deductions, individuals are required to declare all additional sources of income, including earnings from investments such as rent, in line with the law.

Meanwhile, the Chartered Institute of Taxation has reaffirmed its support for the campaign, highlighting the importance of tax compliance in national development.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Francis Timor, Head of Education and Training at the Institute, said countries that achieve high levels of development do so largely because citizens willingly meet their tax obligations.

He expressed concern about low compliance levels in Ghana, noting that many individuals earning income from both formal and informal sectors fail to contribute adequately.

Mr. Timor explained that the Institute is collaborating with the GRA to intensify tax education and awareness, stressing that even small contributions collectively provide government with the resources needed to deliver essential services.

 

He expressed optimism that sustained education and engagement will improve compliance and contribute significantly to Ghana’s economic growth and development.

Source: Classfmonline.com