Addressing the media, the newly appointed Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, has outlined his vision of engaging with stakeholders which focuses on enhancing tax revenue mobilization and achieving the ambitious targets set for the authority.
His remarks come at a critical time when Ghana faces fiscal constraints and needs to strengthen domestic revenue generation to meet its development needs.
Speaking to journalists, Mr. Sarpong underscored the importance of engaging with stakeholders.
“I came to engage with the people, to share my vision with them, to hear their concerns and take their feedback, and be able to work and commit to solving the challenges. And that way, they can also be committed to do the things that they do, make a difference, and together work towards ensuring that we can deliver on our mandate of collecting revenue for the good of the state.”
Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)
This approach aligns with modern tax administration principles, which emphasize stakeholder involvement and trust-building to enhance voluntary compliance.
The Challenge Ahead
Acknowledging the daunting task ahead, Sarpong highlighted the upcoming national budget and the expectations for GRA to meet significant revenue targets. With limited external financing options available, the government is relying more on domestic tax revenue. He expressed readiness to take up the challenge and deliver on the mandate.
In response, he elaborated on the targets set by the government and the crucial role of GRA in achieving them. Mr. Sarpong revealed that the Minister of Finance has tasked the GRA with an ambitious revenue target for 2025.
“Our sector minister, Honorable Ato Forson, has already indicated that in 2025, as GRA, he expects us to exceed GHS 200 billion Ghana cedis as tax revenue. We are looking forward to that challenge because, as a nation, we do know that some of the sources of financing have been closed to the government.”
Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)
This statement highlights the necessity of strengthening domestic revenue mobilization as external funding sources dwindle.
“Therefore, enhancing and improving domestic tax revenue mobilization is key on this journey of resetting the Ghana agenda. it’s our commitment to work together as a team. GRA, our core values are; Being first … So, we’re going to work together to ensure that we achieve the revenue target that will be set for us by our minister.”
Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)
The President’s Mandate and National Development
Meanwhile, the success of GRA’s revenue collection efforts will directly impact national development, as tax revenues fund critical infrastructure, public services, and social programs.
“We’ll also ensure that we enhance and improve on domestic revenue mobilization so that the president will have the necessary resources to deliver on the mandate that the people of Ghana have overwhelmingly entrusted into his pair of hands.”
Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)
This statement reinforces the link between effective tax administration and national progress.
Addressing the media, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong’s vision for GRA is centered on engagement, collaboration, and commitment to exceeding revenue targets. His leadership will be crucial in ensuring that Ghana strengthens its domestic revenue base to finance development initiatives.
With ambitious targets set for 2025, the GRA is expected to rise to the challenge, leveraging teamwork and strategic reforms to enhance tax collection and compliance. Mr. Sarpong’s message signals a proactive and determined approach to revenue mobilization, one that aligns with Ghana’s broader economic recovery agenda.
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