Accra: Dr. Martin Kolbil Yamborigya, Acting Commissioner of the Domestic Tax Revenue Division (DTRD) of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has urged Ghanaians to comply with tax obligations as part of efforts to drive national development. He emphasized the government's reliance on tax revenue to fund development projects, highlighting the necessity for citizens to diligently file and pay their taxes as mandated by law.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Yamborigya made these remarks during a float event that concluded the annual Tax and Good Governance Month, held every April in Accra. The float commenced at the GRA Head Office and traversed through key areas including the Ministries enclave, Tema Station, and the Accra business district, among others, before returning to its starting point.
Dr. Yamborigya explained that April's dedication to tax education coincides with the deadline for filing income tax returns for individuals and companies whose fiscal year ends on December 31. The initiative, themed 'Know Your Taxes, Pay Your Taxes; Let us build Ghana together,' aims to raise awareness on the significance of tax compliance in national development.
He further mentioned that the GRA had established taxpayer service centres nationwide to assist with filing returns, with officers available to provide necessary guidance and support. He stressed the importance of ongoing tax education, outlining a three-year plan for sustained efforts to inform all income-earning Ghanaians of their tax responsibilities.
Francis Timore Boi, an official of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIT) Ghana, also urged improvements in tax compliance, noting its critical role in national development. He pointed out that many individuals and businesses fail to meet their tax obligations, which hinders the country's progress.
Mr. Boye highlighted that countries with robust infrastructure and public services are typically those where citizens willingly pay taxes. He explained that the CIT, as a professional body dedicated to promoting tax practice and education, has partnered with the GRA to intensify public awareness on taxation's importance.
He emphasized that taxes are the primary source of government revenue for essential services like roads, healthcare, and employment. Mr. Boye also addressed the demand for job creation, including the hiring of nurses, stressing that such initiatives depend on adequate tax revenue. He expressed optimism that the ongoing awareness campaign would drive behavioral change, leading more citizens to appreciate the importance of paying taxes for national development.