Joe Ghartey
Ghana’s digital transformation agenda received a significant boost as Joe Ghartey, Chairman of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Board, announced a remarkable growth in revenue collection for the first three quarters of 2024.
“Can we imagine a Ghana without mobile phones? Can we imagine a Ghana where you could not do mobile transactions?” Joe Ghartey asked, highlighting the country’s progress in digital transformation.
The former Second Deputy Speaker made this announcement at the launch of CitizenApp by the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on Monday.
“What has happened today is taking us to another level completely. It’s taking us to a level that may be difficult for me and you to imagine,” he noted.
Joe Ghartey praised the government’s efforts, stating, “The government, the President, and the Vice President have done so much, and I think they deserve a round of applause.”
He emphasised the impact of digital transformation on tax collection, noting, “This will transform the way we collect taxes and increase our taxes by leaps and bounds.”
The GRA’s achievement is particularly impressive, given the trend of reduced revenue collection during election years.
Mr. Ghartey attributed this success to the authority’s business-friendly approach, focusing on education, engagement, and digitalisation.
“We’ve achieved this feat in a business-friendly environment, devoid of forceful or brutal forms of enforcing compliance,” he explained.
“Our officials have been everywhere, educating the public on their civic responsibility with regard to paying their tax,” he added.
Mr. Ghartey also congratulated the Minister of Finance, GRA staff, private and public sector partners, saying, “I congratulate every single person who made this possible.”
He specifically thanked Ms. Julie Essiam, GRA Commissioner-General and her team, noting, “They have used the two E’s – education and engagement – and also digitalisation to ensure increased compliance.”
Mr. Ghartey also emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, stating, “Let us continue to work together to create a brighter digital future for Ghana.”
BY Daniel Bampoe