The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, has urged Ghanaians to make tax payment a national priority, stressing its crucial role in driving sustainable development.
Speaking to JoyBusiness during the 2025 Oguaa Fetu Afahye in Cape Coast, Mr. Sarpong revealed that the GRA is intensifying public sensitisation on the importance of paying taxes.
The festival, which was celebrated under the theme “Innovate to Elevate: Harnessing the Creative Economy for Sustainable Growth”, also saw the GRA extend support to victims of recent flooding in the Central Region. The Authority donated GH¢100,000 to the Central Regional NADMO and the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly to assist affected households.
“GRA, as I already said, is for revenue mobilisation. Being part of this celebration, we have used it as an opportunity to educate Ghanaians, taxpayers, and patrons. As we enjoy and make merry, we should remember that the nation is developed by the taxes we collect,” Mr. Sarpong said.
He encouraged festival attendees and the general public to demand VAT invoices when making purchases.
“As you go to restaurants, hotels, and shops, do one simple thing—make sure the bill you are given has a VAT invoice. When you demand VAT, you ensure that you contribute towards revenue mobilisation and national development,” he stressed.
Mr. Sarpong also embarked on a radio campaign during the festival to promote the GRA’s modified taxation programme, designed to bring small businesses outside the tax bracket into the system.
Source: JoyBusiness
