TIG Post

Tag: GRA

  • Hiding KPMG report will not make us forget “stinky” SML scandal – Manasseh tells Akufo-Addo

    Hiding KPMG report will not make us forget “stinky” SML scandal – Manasseh tells Akufo-Addo

    Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has directly confronted President Akufo-Addo regarding the Presidency’s decision to withhold the complete KPMG audit report on the revenue mobilisation agreement between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).

    Awuni firmly asserted that any efforts to conceal what he termed a “stinky” deal would prove futile. The decision not to disclose the full KPMG audit report has sparked concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.

    Citing specific provisions within the RTI Act, the Presidency has declined to release the report, citing concerns over confidentiality and the sensitive nature of the data involved.

    In a letter addressed to the MFWA and signed by the Chief Director to the Chief of Staff, H. M. Wood, the Presidency expressed regret over its inability to fulfill the request for the full KPMG audit report.

    In response to the Presidential decision, Manasseh Azure Awuni expressed skepticism regarding the confidentiality claims surrounding the KPMG report. He pledged to hold all individuals implicated in the agreement accountable for their actions, underscoring that transparency and accountability are fundamental pillars of democratic governance.

    “The SML deal stinks. If they think hiding the KPMG report will make us forget the SML scandal, they should think again. The SML scandal will not die. And those behind in the past and in the future will face justice, no matter how long it takes.”

    He also referenced former President John Dramani Mahama’s release of the full GYEEDA report during his tenure, emphasizing the significance of transparency in addressing matters of public interest.

    “Even when we did not have the Right to Information Law, President John Mahama released a white paper and released the full GYEEDA Report as well. The Akufo-Addo-led opposition NPP was the loudest in asking President Mahama to release that report, which was also a subject of my investigation in 2013.”

    “What is Akufo-Addo hiding from us?” he asked.

    KPMG, an auditing firm, has completed and submitted its report on the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML) to President Akufo-Addo.

    The President tasked KPMG with auditing the contract on January 2, 2024, setting an initial deadline of January 16, 2024, which was later extended to February 23, 2024.

    According to the audit findings, SML received a total of GH¢1,061,054,778.00 from 2018 to date, while only partially fulfilling its obligations. However, the report also acknowledged that SML’s efforts had contributed to increased revenue in the downstream petroleum sector.

    Despite the audit report’s claims, SML has disputed receiving GH¢1,061,054,778.00 for its contract with the GRA. They argue that KPMG’s figure was cited “without reference to the investments made and the taxes paid” during the review period.

    In response to the report, Sulemana Braimah, Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), stated that the foundation had submitted a Right to Information (RTI) request to the presidency for the full KPMG Audit Report.

  • 2 SML contracts terminated by GRA

    2 SML contracts terminated by GRA

    In adherence to President Akufo-Addo’s recent directives regarding its agreement with Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has terminated the Audit and External Verification Service Contract (AEVS) with SML.

    Additionally, the GRA has instructed the suspension of the Upstream Petroleum and Minerals Revenue Audit components of the contract, pending further examination of the contract particulars.

    Furthermore, the GRA has opted to modify the measurement audit for the Downstream Petroleum Products Contract by transitioning to a fixed fee structure. The Authority has also announced its intention to thoroughly reassess other aspects of the contract, including service delivery expectations, termination clauses, and intellectual property rights.

    The GRA disclosed this in a letter entitled “Compliance with Presidential Directives on Recommendations in KPMG Report on the Transactions Between GRA and SML,” dated May 3, 2024, signed by its Commissioner General, Ms Julie Essiam, and addressed to the Managing Director of Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML)

    The GRA letter has been distributed to several key individuals, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Chief of Staff Mars Akosua Frema Osei Opare, Secretary to the President Nana Bediatuo Asante, Finance Minister Mohammed Amin, the Director of Legal at the Ministry of Finance, and the Deputy Commissioner responsible for Legal Affairs at the GRA.

    “This is about the presidential directives dated 18 April 2024 on the recommendations of KPMG concerning the Contract for Consolidation of Revenue Assurance Services between the Government of Ghana acting per the Ministry of Finance, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML).

    “Following the directives of the President, GRA has undertaken a thorough review of the Consolidation of Services (Transaction Audit and External Verification Services) contract dated 3 October 2019, the Measurement Audit for Downstream Petroleum Products Contract dated 3 October 2019, and the Contract for Consolidation of Revenue Assurance Services (Upstream and Minerals Audit) contract dated 25 October 2023,” the GRA letter read.

    “Based on the review, the following actions are to be taken: First, The Transaction Audit and External Verification Services Contract will be terminated. Secondly, the Measurement Audit for Downstream Petroleum Products Contract will be amended.

    “Specifically, the fee structure will be revised to a fixed fee structure. In addition, other provisions such as service delivery expectations, termination, and intellectual property rights will be subjected to a thorough review.

    “Thirdly, the Upstream Petroleum and Minerals Revenue Audit portions of the Contract for Consolidation of Revenue Assurance Services cannot take effect until a comprehensive technical needs assessment, value-for-money assessment, and relevant stakeholder consultations have been achieved,” the GRA letter to SML further read.

    GRA-SML investigations

    President Akufo-Addo received the KPMG report on April 2, 2024, three months after commissioning the audit firm to investigate the GRA-SML deal. After reviewing the report, the government issued a press statement endorsing KPMG’s recommendations in full. As part of this adoption, the government directed the GRA to review the deal among other directives.

    On January 2, 2024, President Akufo-Addo appointed and tasked KPMG, a leading audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to immediately audit the transaction between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilization Ghana Ltd (SML). This contract aimed to enhance revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector, the upstream petroleum production, and minerals and metals resources value chain.

    The President’s directive was communicated through a statement from the communications directorate of the Jubilee House, signed by the director of communications at the presidency, Eugene Arhin. The audit’s terms of reference included six objectives:

    1. Conduct an audit to determine the rationale or needs assessment performed before GRA’s contract approval and assess how the arrangement aligns with specific needs.
    2. Assess the appropriateness of the contracting methodology, verifying compliance with legal standards and industry best practices in the procurement process for selecting SML.
    3. Evaluate the degree of alignment between current activities and the stipulated contract scope, identifying any deviations.
    4. Assess the value or benefit that SML has provided to the GRA through this engagement.
    5. Review financial arrangements, including pricing structures, payment terms, and resolution of any financial compliance issues.
    6. Submit a report on findings and appropriate recommendations regarding the above objectives.

    “President Akufo-Addo further tasked KPMG to complete the assignment in two weeks and submit appropriate recommendations to him. The President also directed the Ministry of Finance and GRA to provide KPMG with whatever assistance they will require for the conduct of the audit and has also directed the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority to suspend the performance of the contract, pending the submission of the audit report, including any payments presently envisaged under its terms,” the Jubilee House statement further read.

  • It is pointless to publish KPMG’s full report – Afenyo-Markin

    It is pointless to publish KPMG’s full report – Afenyo-Markin

    Majority in Parliament has rejected demands for the complete disclosure of the KPMG report on the GRA and SML contracts.

    After the audit report was submitted on April 24, 2024, a statement from the Presidency disclosed that the total fees paid under the contracts from 2018 until the suspension date exceeded one billion Ghana cedis.

    However, SML has denied this assertion.

    In response, the NDC has joined the chorus calling for President Akufo-Addo to release the full audit report.

    Addressing reporters, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin argued that the full report serves as an advisory document for the President in decision-making; hence, it would be inappropriate to make it public.

    “There’s no doubt in our minds that the document is for advisory purposes; it is an opinion that is guiding Mr. President in decision-making. So, it is not within the rights of anybody to demand it.

    “Much as it is in the law that members of the public have the right to receive public documents for the sake of transparency and good governance.

    It is also a Bonafide document of the president to give this advice, and opinion to himself,” the Majority leader said.

  • Minority has failed to prove GRA-SML deal is causing financial loss to the state – Majority

    Minority has failed to prove GRA-SML deal is causing financial loss to the state – Majority

    The Majority in Parliament has dismissed as unfounded the calls by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the prosecution of individuals allegedly involved in the SML-GRA contract.

    Members of the Majority caucus argued that there is inadequate evidence to suggest that any government official is responsible for causing financial loss to the state, making prosecution in the SML-GRA deal unwarranted.

    In a statement to the press, the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, stressed that President Akufo-Addo’s decision to conduct a comprehensive review of the contract is in the best interest of the public.

    “Now we are aware that our friends in the NDC are calling for certain prosecutions. I think that they have not paid attention to the whole issue and they only want to do politics as usual. Their call is unfounded for the simple reason that there isn’t any established proof of any officer of state causing financial loss to the state. 

    “Indeed what they think are payments to SML are not payments borne out of the government’s revenue. If you peruse the agreement, SML is paid out of what it generates and they would have to pay attention to the details. They are paid 0.05% per litre of revenue that they generate as a result of the system that they put in place to monitor activities in the petroleum sector. 

    “And it is instructive to also note that his company opened its doors to the Mines and Energy Committee to inspect and to see the nature of their operations. What I want to urge our colleagues in the opposition is that they should not kill Ghanaian businesses. 

    “Often under the guise of due diligence and ensuring that there is transparency, we often get out of control and destroy Ghanaian companies, whereas foreign ones who operate in certain sectors get a kind of protection that makes them develop their business but often Ghanaian businesses suffer,” he stated.

    The report released by the Communications Director of the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, finds the GRA guilty of failing to obtain approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) for contracts with Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    According to a report by KPMG, GRA sought approval from PPA three times between June 2017 and September 2017 to engage SML for transaction audit services, but approval was not granted.

    Despite this, GRA proceeded to engage SML as a subcontractor to West Blue, eventually taking over services from West Blue when their contract ended in December 2018.

    Furthermore, GRA added external price verification to the services offered by SML and signed a downstream petroleum audit agreement with SML, all without PPA approval.

    It was not until August 27, 2020, under new leadership at GRA, that PPA ratified the procurement processes used to engage SML. This raises questions about GRA’s adherence to procurement regulations and the oversight of its contracting processes.

  • You are a “hypocrite” for defending ‘lawless’ SML – Woyome fires Samson Lardy

    You are a “hypocrite” for defending ‘lawless’ SML – Woyome fires Samson Lardy

    Ghanaian businessman Alfred Agbesi Woyome has criticized journalist and lawyer Sampson Lardy Anyenini, accusing him of hypocrisy over the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML) 

    Woyome’s criticism comes after Samson Lardy Anyenini reportedly expressed sympathy towards Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), which had its revenue assurance contract with the government scaled down due to allegations of a corrupt deal.

    Woyome argued that the legal grounds for canceling the SML contract are similar to the technicalities used against him by the government.

    He accused Anyenini of siding with the government against him but showing sympathy towards SML.

    “I heard, @Samson Lardy Anyenini, on Joy 99.7 FM say Government not sending the SML Contract to Parliament for Approval is not the FAULT of SML. In essence he is saying SML and its Directors have no constitutional mandate or obligation to send contracts to Parliament for Approval (even before executing same).

    “I must state that I agree with him 100 percent, because I have always argued that no Contractor or Businessman has the power to perform any Constitutional,  Legal or Regulatory duties/functions of Ministers or Public Officials.

    According to him, “My concern is the shameless hypocrisy, double standard, dishonesty, shallowness and unprincipled mature of people like Samson Lardy Anyenini,” Mr Woyome wrote in a post on social media.

    He added, “The hypocrisy stem from the fact that, Samson Lardy and his likes, made all the noise, and publicly crucified Waterville BVI and Mr Alfred Agbesi Woyome, because a certain CAN 2008 Contract between Government of Ghana and Waterville BVI was not sent to Parliament for Approval.”

    Between 2017 and 2020, the Akufo-Addo government pursued Alfred Agbesi Woyome for the refund of a Gh¢51 million judgment debt paid to him by the State over the abrogation of a contract with Waterville BVI, a construction company. Woyome had provided financial engineering services for Waterville, which had won a contract to build stadia for Ghana to host the CAN 2008 football tournament.

    The government’s pursuit of Woyome was based on a 2014 Supreme Court judgment that declared him not entitled to the money because the Waterville contract, through which he claimed payment for his services, was illegal as it had not been approved by Parliament.

    In his defense, Woyome and his legal team argued that the responsibility for seeking parliamentary approval lay with the government and not with him or Waterville. However, the court dismissed this argument.

    Regarding the recent controversy over the revenue assurance contract awarded to Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), which reportedly has connections to individuals within the government, lawyer Sampson Lardy Anyenini commented that SML should not be blamed for the lack of parliamentary approval for the contract.

    “How come Samson Lardy Anyenini believe and blame Waterville/Woyome for not seeking Parliamentary Approval, but accepts that SML cannot be faulted or blamed for their contract not going to Parliament for Approval?” Mr. Woyome asked.

    According to him, “It was on the basis of the said void contract (as determined by the Supreme Court) that the Supreme Court ordered Mr. Alfred Agbesi Woyome to the State even though he was in no form of shape linked to the 2006 Contract between GoG and Waterville BVI. In fact, Mr. Alfred Agbesi Woyome’s claim for which he got a default judgment was for services he rendered to GoG in 2005, and NOTHING in relation to the supppsed 2006 Contract.”

  • How GRA busted US Army officer smuggling guns into Ghana

    How GRA busted US Army officer smuggling guns into Ghana

    The effectiveness of officers of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has been brought to light after the successful arrest of a United States Army Major, Kojo Owusu Dartey, currently assigned to Fort Liberty, over the smuggling of firearms.

    According to the United States Attorney’s Office, the Ghana Revenue Authority discovered the firearms and reported the seizure to the DEA attaché in Ghana and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division.

    Dartey concealed the firearms, including handguns, an AR15, magazines, suppressors, and a combat shotgun, inside blue barrels under rice and household goods. He smuggled these barrels out of the Port of Baltimore, Maryland, on a container ship bound for the Port of Tema in Ghana.

    It is reported that between June 28 and July 2, 2021, he purchased seven firearms in the Fort Liberty area and enlisted the help of a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to purchase three additional firearms and send them to him in North Carolina.

    Presently, Kojo Dartey has been convicted on multiple charges, including dealing in firearms without a license and smuggling goods from the United States into Ghana and faces a maximum penalty of 240 months in prison when sentenced on July 23, 2024.

    Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, commended the collaborative effort of law enforcement agencies across the globe in exposing international criminals.

    He specifically thanked the Ghana Revenue Authority and the International Cooperation Unit Office of the Attorney-General of Ghana for their assistance in the investigation.

    “We are partnering with law enforcement agencies across the globe to expose international criminals – from money launderers to rogue international arms traffickers capable of fueling violence abroad,” said U.S Attorney Michael Easley. 

    “Through a partnership with Ghanaian officials, this rogue Army Major was convicted at trial after smuggling guns to Ghana in blue barrels of rice and household goods. I want to thank the Ghana Revenue Authority and the International Cooperation Unit Office of the Attorney-General of Ghana for their assistance in the investigation. I also commend the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) attachés to U.S. Embassy Accra and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs of the Department’s Criminal Division for their significant assistance to this prosecution,” he added.

    The case was investigated by the ATF, Army Criminal Investigation Division, and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel J. Diaz prosecuted the case with technical assistance from David Ryan, DOJ Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

  • Scandal in waiting as govt plans handover domestic tax collection to an Indian-owned company

    Scandal in waiting as govt plans handover domestic tax collection to an Indian-owned company

    Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has resurrected plans to hand over the country’s domestic tax mobilization to an Indian company under the leadership of the newly appointed Commissioner-General, Julie Essiam.

    This decision comes after the former Commissioner-General, Rev. Dr. Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah, halted the process in January 2024 due to financial constraints.

    Reports from Techfocus24 suggest that Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s opposition to the deal led to his replacement by Julie Essiam. Allegations suggest that the government, with support from the finance ministry and the new leadership at GRA, is determined to finalize the agreement, despite concerns raised about its national implications.

    Of particular concern is the timeline of the deal, which coincides with the upcoming change in government after the 2024 elections. This raises suspicions about the motives behind rushing through an anti-local content agreement that would come into effect under a new administration.

    Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s decision to cancel the contract for the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) was met with resistance, particularly from GRA officials and the dissolved GRA Board, led by Dr. Oteng Gyasi.

    Since the emergence of these developments, Techfocus24 has reached out to GRA officials and past board members, all of whom have deferred responsibility to Julie Essiam, suggesting she holds the key to the situation.

    There are concerns that the claims made by officials of IPMC/Tata regarding GRA’s inability to intervene may hold merit. At the center of this controversial deal is IPMC CEO, Amar Deep, whose alleged actions raise questions about his loyalty to Ghana.

    The technical and financial proposals submitted by IPMC/Tata have been forwarded to the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) for approval. If approved, this would pave the way for the installation of their systems on GRA’s infrastructure, signaling a transition away from Axon Information Systems by 2025. As of now, the status of the approval remains uncertain.

    This is in spite of a number of worrying facts, including the following:

    1. The Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) disqualified IPMC/Tata from getting the contract on the grounds that IPMC/Tata, among other things, failed to meet up to 80% of GRA’s requirements on deployment experience and also failed the 30% local content test.
    2. First hand evidence gathered by top officials of GRA from Rwanda, Kenya, Zambia and Uganda indicate that Tata’s ITAx system is very problematic on several levels.
    3. The record is there to show that the current vendor – Axon, which is a wholly-Ghanaian-owned company, is doing a great job by all standards, and GRA officials have testified that Axon’s Ghana Integrated Tax Management and Information System (GITMIS) is at par with any ITAS in the world.
    4. Before their abrupt dissolution, the board of GRA were opposed to the moves to award the contract to IPMC/Tata.
    5. This government would have gone out of office by the time IPMC/Tata’s contract takes effect in 2025.
    6. This writer is also reliably informed that the former CG wrote to the presidency and Finance Ministry and stated his objection to the deal with clear reasons.
    7. The former CG also wrote to IPMC/Tata in January, informing them that the deal had been CANCELLED due for lack of funds.

    But that was not the first time the former CG wrote a letter to say the process had been cancelled. Way back in August 2023, when 12 entities were in the run for the deal, he wrote a letter to all 12 companies telling them the deal was off due to lack of funds.

    Then just a month later, in September 2023, the same former CG, wrote exclusively to IPMC/Tata and asked them to submit their technical and financial proposal for the same contract. Clearly, the CG was operating under the whims and caprices of persons in government with vested interest on that occasion.

    But when Techfocus24 reached out to GRA staff and Board members, including the former CG and Board Chair, they paid heed to the voice of reason and put the brakes on the whole process, which later culminated in the January 3, 2024 letter, eventually leading to the removal of the former CG and dissolution of the Board.

    Techfocus24 did a very detailed article about how this whole process began and how it finally led to the replacement of the 62-year-old former CG, with a 61-year-old woman under very strange circumstances including the complete dissolution of the entire GRA board.

    Parliament must intervene

    As things stand now, if Parliament does not intervene, Ghana’s domestic tax mobilization and all the critical national data it comes with, will go into the hands of an Indian company that has been kicked out of at least three other African countries.

    If the deal goes through under the watch of this outgoing government, and the new government decides to cancel it, the Ghanaian taxpayer will end up paying huge judgement debt to that Indian company. This is exactly what former GRA Board Chair, Dr. Oteng Gyasi alluded to when he said procurement has become the main conduit for corrupt government officials and their cronies in the private sector to loot the national purse.

  • New GRA boss awakens fishy IPMC/Tata deal after former CG cancelled it

    New GRA boss awakens fishy IPMC/Tata deal after former CG cancelled it

    Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has resurrected plans to hand over the country’s domestic tax mobilization to an Indian company under the leadership of the newly appointed Commissioner-General, Julie Essiam.

    This decision comes after the former Commissioner-General, Rev. Dr. Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah, halted the process in January 2024 due to financial constraints.

    Reports from Techfocus24 suggest that Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s opposition to the deal led to his replacement by Julie Essiam. Allegations suggest that the government, with support from the finance ministry and the new leadership at GRA, is determined to finalize the agreement, despite concerns raised about its national implications.

    Of particular concern is the timeline of the deal, which coincides with the upcoming change in government after the 2024 elections. This raises suspicions about the motives behind rushing through an anti-local content agreement that would come into effect under a new administration.

    Dr. Owusu-Amoah’s decision to cancel the contract for the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) was met with resistance, particularly from GRA officials and the dissolved GRA Board, led by Dr. Oteng Gyasi.

    Since the emergence of these developments, Techfocus24 has reached out to GRA officials and past board members, all of whom have deferred responsibility to Julie Essiam, suggesting she holds the key to the situation.

    There are concerns that the claims made by officials of IPMC/Tata regarding GRA’s inability to intervene may hold merit. At the center of this controversial deal is IPMC CEO, Amar Deep, whose alleged actions raise questions about his loyalty to Ghana.

    The technical and financial proposals submitted by IPMC/Tata have been forwarded to the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) for approval. If approved, this would pave the way for the installation of their systems on GRA’s infrastructure, signaling a transition away from Axon Information Systems by 2025. As of now, the status of the approval remains uncertain.

    This is in spite of a number of worrying facts, including the following:

    1. The Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) disqualified IPMC/Tata from getting the contract on the grounds that IPMC/Tata, among other things, failed to meet up to 80% of GRA’s requirements on deployment experience and also failed the 30% local content test.
    2. First hand evidence gathered by top officials of GRA from Rwanda, Kenya, Zambia and Uganda indicate that Tata’s ITAx system is very problematic on several levels.
    3. The record is there to show that the current vendor – Axon, which is a wholly-Ghanaian-owned company, is doing a great job by all standards, and GRA officials have testified that Axon’s Ghana Integrated Tax Management and Information System (GITMIS) is at par with any ITAS in the world.
    4. Before their abrupt dissolution, the board of GRA were opposed to the moves to award the contract to IPMC/Tata.
    5. This government would have gone out of office by the time IPMC/Tata’s contract takes effect in 2025.
    6. This writer is also reliably informed that the former CG wrote to the presidency and Finance Ministry and stated his objection to the deal with clear reasons.
    7. The former CG also wrote to IPMC/Tata in January, informing them that the deal had been CANCELLED due for lack of funds.

    But that was not the first time the former CG wrote a letter to say the process had been cancelled. Way back in August 2023, when 12 entities were in the run for the deal, he wrote a letter to all 12 companies telling them the deal was off due to lack of funds.

    Then just a month later, in September 2023, the same former CG, wrote exclusively to IPMC/Tata and asked them to submit their technical and financial proposal for the same contract. Clearly, the CG was operating under the whims and caprices of persons in government with vested interest on that occasion.

    But when Techfocus24 reached out to GRA staff and Board members, including the former CG and Board Chair, they paid heed to the voice of reason and put the brakes on the whole process, which later culminated in the January 3, 2024 letter, eventually leading to the removal of the former CG and dissolution of the Board.

    Techfocus24 did a very detailed article about how this whole process began and how it finally led to the replacement of the 62-year-old former CG, with a 61-year-old woman under very strange circumstances including the complete dissolution of the entire GRA board.

    Parliament must intervene

    As things stand now, if Parliament does not intervene, Ghana’s domestic tax mobilization and all the critical national data it comes with, will go into the hands of an Indian company that has been kicked out of at least three other African countries.

    If the deal goes through under the watch of this outgoing government, and the new government decides to cancel it, the Ghanaian taxpayer will end up paying huge judgement debt to that Indian company. This is exactly what former GRA Board Chair, Dr. Oteng Gyasi alluded to when he said procurement has become the main conduit for corrupt government officials and their cronies in the private sector to loot the national purse.

  • SML/GRA contract is just another Agyapa deal in suit and tie – Bright Simons

    SML/GRA contract is just another Agyapa deal in suit and tie – Bright Simons

    The Honourary Vice President for IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has compared the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML) to a reincarnation of the controversial Agyapa deal.

    During a detailed presentation on the expectations of SML’s role on Joy FM’s Newsfile, he highlighted that the SML task was expanded to include minerals and petroleum, despite the contract being questionable.

    “We are completely certain that when you try to expand this SML service to cover the minerals and petroleum it was simply Agyapa [deal] in suit and tie.

    “When Agyapa failed, somebody suggested that if we cannot get the percentage of the royalties that we wanted from every ounce of gold sold in Ghana, then we will do even more, we will add the oil as well and we will create a mechanism to get a certain percentage out of that,” he said on Saturday, April 27.

    Mr. Simons questioned the feasibility of accurately determining oil production and calculating royalties, especially considering concerns about the reliability of data provided by oil companies.

    He criticized the GRA’s reliance on mechanisms to establish royalty payments, highlighting the inherent challenges associated with monitoring and regulating the extraction and sale of petroleum.

    “It doesn’t make any sense to try and claim that because the Tullow and other companies are lying about the oil produced, you will use some mechanism to try and establish that.

    “And for every barrel of oil produced, you will then be entitled to a percentage. what logic is that?” he quizzed.

  • Where is your corruption risk assessment on SML-GRA contract – Inusah Fuseini asks OSP

    Where is your corruption risk assessment on SML-GRA contract – Inusah Fuseini asks OSP

    Former Tamale Central MP, Inusah Fuseini, has criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for not conducting a corruption risk assessment into the SML/GRA contract.

    Mr Fuseini believes that the OSP should have promptly released a report on the matter immediately after The Fourth Estate documentary was aired.

    He suggests that there are indications of corruption and conflicts of interest in the deal, which the OSP should investigate. He also added that there was a clear intention to hide the contract from the public.

    In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile program on Saturday, April 27, Mr Fuseini emphasized that Ghanaians will not tolerate any misuse of the state purse.

    “It’s very obvious that there was a clear intention to keep the contract out of the public view and so this is where I support the civil society that such a matter must have an open, transparent, rigorous and meritocratic evaluation of the contract and the outcomes the matters.

    “Immediately the report came out, the OSP should have conducted a corruption risk assessment and released a report by now,” he said.

    KPMG, a reputable auditing firm, has completed and submitted its report on the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) to President Akufo-Addo.

    The audit, initiated by the President on January 2, 2024, following an exposé by the Fourth Estate, was originally scheduled to be completed by January 16, 2024. However, the deadline was extended to February 23, 2024, due to certain circumstances.

    According to the audit findings, SML has received a total of GH¢1,061,054,778 since 2018 while only partially fulfilling its obligations under the contract.

    However, SML has challenged this finding, asserting that the report as a whole justifies the contract.

  • Contracts were awarded illegally, gov’t hiding more shady deals in GRA/SML contract – Dr. Arthur Kobina Kennedy 

    Contracts were awarded illegally, gov’t hiding more shady deals in GRA/SML contract – Dr. Arthur Kobina Kennedy 

    A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) known for his roles as a physician, author, and politician, Dr. Arthur Kobina Kennedy, has raised concerns about the potential government concealment of details regarding the contract between Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    Dr. Kennedy suspects that the lack of transparency surrounding the contract is meant to hide any illegalities and negative impacts it may have on the Ghanaian people.

    He argues that regardless of any perceived benefits, the contract should be considered invalid due to its alleged illegal signing.

    During an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show on Friday, April 26, Dr. Kennedy called on the government to release the full KPMG audit report on the contract to the public. He believes that this transparency would help Ghanaians understand the issues at hand and how the state has been affected.

    Emphasizing the importance of transparency in governance, especially concerning public funds and contracts, Dr. Kennedy urged the government to prioritize accountability and provide the necessary information to the public. This, he said, would ensure that citizens are informed about decisions that directly impact them.

    Dr. Kennedy reiterated the need for openness and urged the government to address any irregularities in the SML-GRA contract for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

    “It appears that the government is trying to hide something. The fundamentals of this are clear and the contracts were awarded illegally and regardless what benefits have been accrued, it begs the question of why, regardless of the official disapproval, people went round the processes and awarded the contract.”

    “Of course, a contract can be awarded improperly to somebody who might deliver some benefits when for example the terms of the contract were inimical to the public interest. And I think that the best thing the government can do is actually to release the KPMG report so that the public can we review that,” he said.

    KPMG, a reputable auditing firm, has completed and presented its report on the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) to President Akufo-Addo.

    The audit was initiated by the President on January 2, 2024, following an expose by the 4th Estate. Initially scheduled to be concluded by Tuesday, January 16, 2024, the deadline was extended to Friday, February 23, 2024.

    According to the audit findings, SML has received a total of GH¢1,061,054,778.00 since 2018 while fulfilling its obligations partially. SML has challenged this finding, claiming that the report, in general, justifies the contract.

  • Publish and bring before parliament KPMG audit report on SML/GRA contract – Isaac Adongo tells Akufo-Addo

    Publish and bring before parliament KPMG audit report on SML/GRA contract – Isaac Adongo tells Akufo-Addo

    The Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, Isaac Adongo, has called on President Akufo-Addo to immediately release the KPMG audit report on the revenue assurance contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    Mr Adongo urged the President to ensure that a copy of the report is presented to Parliament when the House reconvenes from recess, emphasizing that this step is essential for transparency in the deal and will enable Parliament to conduct an independent investigation into the contract.

    In a press statement issued on Friday, April 26, Mr Adongo reiterated the importance of transparency in government contracts, stating that it is crucial for accountability and public trust.

    The Bolgatanga Central Member of Parliament highlighted the Minority’s commitment to uncovering any breaches or irregularities in the contract, affirming that they would not allow the government to conceal any wrongdoing.

    Mr Adongo assured the Ghanaian people that the Minority would continue to demand accountability from the government and remain steadfast in protecting the public purse.

    He encouraged citizens to join in the effort to ensure that government contracts are executed with integrity and in the best interest of the nation.

    “At this moment, I respectfully request that Parliament be furnished with a copy of the KPMG report to aid the Finance Committee’s investigation.

    “It strikes me as unusual that the report only contains mild suggestions and recommendations despite the abundance of information available to the public regarding the SML arrangement.

    “Consequently, we must scrutinize the comprehensiveness of their mandate, including their TOR, methodology, and approach.”

    “Our primary objective is to expose the beneficial owners of this group and utilize Parliament’s authority to recover the funds that have been paid due to this illegality.

    “I trust that the President understands that my Parliamentary scrutiny request is founded on section 33 of the PFM Act, which mandates that Parliament authorize contracts with multi-year obligations in the first instance.”

    “For the unsuspecting public, this recent development further reinforces the belief amongst many discerning people of Ghana, that Bawumia and his associates are simply spearheading a corruption-infested digitalisation strategy steeped in delusions and shrewdness.

    “Without equivocation, this government’s touted mantra of digitalisation is merely a scheme, a political propaganda of chicanery deployed to hoodwink and exploit the people of Ghana for their self-serving benefit,” an excerpt of his statement said.

    KPMG, a reputable auditing firm, has completed and submitted its report on the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) to President Akufo-Addo.

    The audit was initiated by the President on January 2, 2024, following an expose by the media. Originally scheduled to be concluded by January 16, 2024, the deadline was extended to February 23, 2024, due to circumstances.

    According to the audit findings, SML has received a total of GH¢1,061,054,778 since 2018 while fulfilling its obligations partially.

    However, SML has challenged this finding, asserting that the report in general justifies the contract.

    KPMG-REPORT-ON-SML-MUST-BE-PUBLISHED-AND-LAID-IN-PARLIAMENT_HON.-ISAAC-ADONGODownload
  • KPMG audit report proves we haven’t been paid $100m by GRA – SML

    KPMG audit report proves we haven’t been paid $100m by GRA – SML

    Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) has highlighted that the audit assurance report by KPMG confirmed that it has not received a payment of $100 million from the government.

    The company emphasized that the KPMG report, as communicated through a press statement released by the Communications Director of the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, exonerated their position following the expose by The Fourth Estate.

    In a press statement issued on Thursday, April 25, SML reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to Ghana’s development by adhering to ethically acceptable standards and maintaining the quality of its work.

    The company emphasized its dedication to assisting in building a better Ghana for all citizens and stressed its commitment to ethical practices and maintaining high standards in its operations.

    Moreover, SML mentioned that it has instructed its legal team to address other professional misjudgments identified in the KPMG report.

    Following President Akufo-Addo’s directive on January 2 for an audit of the GRA-SML contract by KPMG, the audit report revealed that SML was paid a total of GH¢1,061,054,778.00 from 2018 to the present.

    But Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML) has refuted claims that it received GH¢1,061,054,778.00 as compensation for its revenue mobilisation contract with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    Regarding concerns about potential duplication of work by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), SML clarified that it is not engaged in such practices.

  • Gov’t rakes in GHC1.2bn revenue in taxes from Newmont in 2024 Q1

    Gov’t rakes in GHC1.2bn revenue in taxes from Newmont in 2024 Q1

    Newmont’s Business Unit in Africa has reported that its Ghana operations (Ahafo South and Akyem mines) paid a total of GH¢ 1.295 billion in taxes, royalties, levies, and carried interest to the Government of Ghana in the first quarter of 2024.

    These payments were made through the Ghana Revenue Authority, Forestry Commission, and the Ministry of Finance.

    This announcement follows the recent disclosure of Newmont’s 2023 full-year fiscal payment to the Government of Ghana, where its operations in Ghana paid GH¢3.965 billion, marking a 43.6% increase in fiscal payments compared to the same period in 2022.

    In the first quarter of 2024, Newmont’s Ahafo South operation contributed GH¢ 1.105 billion, while its Akyem operation contributed GH¢ 190 million to the total payments.

    The breakdown of payments from January to March 2024 shows GH¢ 672 million as Corporate Tax, GH¢ 291 million as Mineral Royalties, GH¢ 99 million as Pay-As-You-Earn, GH¢ 97 million as Withholding Tax, GH¢ 122 million as Carried Interest, and GH¢ 14 million as Forestry Levy.

    Newmont is currently advancing its Ahafo North project in Ghana, which includes four open pit mines and a standalone mill located approximately 30 kilometers from its Ahafo South operation. The project is expected to add approximately 300,000 ounces per year to its production in Ghana.

    With a combined direct employee and contractor workforce of over 9,000 in Ghana, Newmont continues to prioritize safety and deliver long-term value for its stakeholders, host communities, and the local economy. The company also maintains well-resourced development foundations at both operational sites, leading social development initiatives in the host communities.

    As the world’s leading gold company and a producer of copper, silver, zinc, and lead, Newmont’s portfolio is anchored in favorable mining jurisdictions in North America, South America, Australia, and Africa. The company is the only gold producer listed in the S&P 500 Index and is widely recognized for its principled environmental, social, and governance practices. It is an industry leader in value creation, supported by robust safety standards, superior execution, and technical expertise.

  • Revenue assurance contract between GRA and SML rakes in GHS2.45bn for the state

    Revenue assurance contract between GRA and SML rakes in GHS2.45bn for the state

    KPMG’s audit report has unveiled the positive impact of the revenue assurance contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), showcasing a notable increase in state tax revenue.

    According to the report, the contract has led to a substantial surge in volumes, marked by a recorded rise of 1.7 billion litres, consequently resulting in a tax revenue increase to the State totaling GH¢ 2.45 billion.

    Furthermore, the report highlights qualitative advantages, including the implementation of 24/7 electronic real-time monitoring of outflow and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products at depots where SML has installed flowmeters.

    The report also underscores SML’s performance in conducting six levels of reconciliation, which has further bolstered the monitoring process.

    These revelations were disclosed in a press statement issued on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, by Eugene Arhin, the Communications Director of the Presidency.

    However, the report also recommends a review of the contract for downstream petroleum audit services, particularly focusing on the fee structure. This indicates that while the contract has yielded significant improvements in revenue generation, there are aspects requiring further examination and adjustments to ensure fairness and efficiency.

    “There is a clear need for the downstream petroleum audit services provided by SML. GRA and the State have benefited from these services since SML commenced providing them. There has been an increase in volumes of 1.7 billion litres and an increase in tax revenue to the State of GHS 2.45 billion. KPMG also observed that there were qualitative benefits, including a 24/7 electronic real-time monitoring of outflow and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products at depots where SML had installed flowmeters and six levels of reconciliation done by SML.”

    “This minimises the occurrence of under-declarations.However, it is important to review the contract for downstream petroleum audit services, particularly the fee structure. Given the experience and proficiency of SML over the last four years of providing this service, the President has directed that the fee structure be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure. Other provisions of the contract worth reviewing include clauses on intellectual property rights, termination, and service delivery expectations.”

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo took action on January 2, 2024, by commissioning KPMG to investigate the contract between SML and GRA following an exposé by the Fourth Estate.

    Subsequently, President Akufo-Addo has been briefed on the findings of the KPMG audit report concerning the revenue mobilisation contract between GRA and SML.

    The report was officially presented to him on Wednesday, March 27, as revealed in a Facebook post by Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communications at the Presidency, on Wednesday, April 3.

  • GRA yet to see documents on investments made by SML in downstream petroleum sector since 2018 – KPMG

    GRA yet to see documents on investments made by SML in downstream petroleum sector since 2018 – KPMG

    An audit report from KPMG on the contracts signed between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) shows that there is not full transparency on the part of the latter.

    According to KPMG, SML did not provide GRA supporting documents or relevant information to verify the investment it has made in the contracts signed from 2018 to 2023.

    KPMG made this known when it revealed that the government would be liable to pay Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) a return on investment equivalent to the fair value of SML’s investment in its contract with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) should it terminate its contract without cause.

    According to KPMG in its audit report on the contract between GRA and SML, the total investment value in the contracts for the transaction audit, external price verification services, and downstream petroleum audit services amounts to US$44,044,180.00.

    The total investment value in the contract for the upstream petroleum audit and minerals audit services amounts to US$133,486,722.51.

    Therefore, the total investment value for all the services provided by SML to GRA amounts to US$177,530,902.51.

    However, “SML had yet to implement the upstream petroleum audit and minerals audit services, and therefore, there could be no assessment as to whether GRA would derive value or benefit from that service.”

    Should the government decide to terminate the contract, KPMG recommended that GRA verify the investment of any of the services that were provided by SML.

    Regarding the downstream petroleum audit services, KPMG determined that there was an incremental volume of 1.7 billion litres and an incremental tax revenue of GHS 2.45 billion for the period under review. 

    “There were also qualitative benefits, including a 24/7electronic real-time monitoring of the outflow and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products at depots where SML had installed flowmeters,” the report added.

    The downstream petroleum sector refers to the final stage in the petroleum industry, where refined petroleum products are distributed and sold to consumers. This sector includes activities such as refining, storage, transportation, and marketing of petroleum products. Examples of downstream activities include operating refineries, distributing fuels to gas stations, and selling petroleum products to end-users like consumers and businesses.

    The upstream petroleum sector is the initial stage of the petroleum industry, which involves exploration, drilling, and production of crude oil and natural gas. This sector focuses on locating and extracting crude oil and natural gas from underground reserves. Activities in the upstream sector include geological surveys, drilling exploratory wells, and operating oil and gas production facilities. The products extracted in the upstream sector are then processed and refined in the downstream sector for distribution and sale to consumers.

    Meanwhile, as part of his recommendations, President Akufo-Addo has directed that the fee structure under the contract be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure.

    This change is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in the collaboration between GRA and SML, ensuring that the government receives value for money.

    “…it is important to review the contract for downstream petroleum audit services, particularly the fee structure. Given the experience and proficiency of SML over the last four years of providing this service, the President has directed that the fee structure be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure. Other provisions of the contract worth reviewing include clauses on intellectual property rights, termination, and service delivery expectations,” the report from the Presidency added.

    Below is the full report by President Akufo-Addo.

  • Gov’t to pay SML over $44 million if it cancels contract with GRA

    Gov’t to pay SML over $44 million if it cancels contract with GRA

    The government would be liable to pay Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) a return on investment equivalent to the fair value of SML’s investment in its contract with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) should it terminate its contract without cause.

    According to KPMG in its audit report on the contract between GRA and SML, the total investment value in the contracts for the transaction audit, external price verification services, and downstream petroleum audit services amounts to US$44,044,180.00.

    The total investment value in the contract for the upstream petroleum audit and minerals audit services amounts to US$133,486,722.51.

    Therefore, the total investment value for all the services provided by SML to GRA amounts to US$177,530,902.51.

    However, “SML had yet to implement the upstream petroleum audit and minerals audit services, and therefore, there could be no assessment as to whether GRA would derive value or benefit from that service.”

    Regarding the downstream petroleum audit services, KPMG determined that there was an incremental volume of 1.7 billion litres and an incremental tax revenue of GHS 2.45 billion for the period under review. 

    “There were also qualitative benefits, including a 24/7electronic real-time monitoring of the outflow and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products at depots where SML had installed flowmeters,” the report added.

    The downstream petroleum sector refers to the final stage in the petroleum industry, where refined petroleum products are distributed and sold to consumers. This sector includes activities such as refining, storage, transportation, and marketing of petroleum products. Examples of downstream activities include operating refineries, distributing fuels to gas stations, and selling petroleum products to end-users like consumers and businesses.

    The upstream petroleum sector is the initial stage of the petroleum industry, which involves exploration, drilling, and production of crude oil and natural gas. This sector focuses on locating and extracting crude oil and natural gas from underground reserves. Activities in the upstream sector include geological surveys, drilling exploratory wells, and operating oil and gas production facilities. The products extracted in the upstream sector are then processed and refined in the downstream sector for distribution and sale to consumers.

    Also, it is important to note that SML did not provide supporting documents or relevant information to verify the investment it has made, per the KPMG audit report shared by President Akufo-Addo in a statement dated April 24.

    Should the government decide to terminate the contract, KPMG recommended that GRA verify the investment of any of the services that were provided.

    Meanwhile, as part of his recommendations, President Akufo-Addo has directed that the fee structure under the contract be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure.

    This change is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in the collaboration between GRA and SML, ensuring that the government receives value for money.

    “…it is important to review the contract for downstream petroleum audit services, particularly the fee structure. Given the experience and proficiency of SML over the last four years of providing this service, the President has directed that the fee structure be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure. Other provisions of the contract worth reviewing include clauses on intellectual property rights, termination, and service delivery expectations,” the report from the Presidency added.

    Below is the full report by President Akufo-Addo.

  • GRA-SML contract generated GHC2.45bn revenue for gov’t – KPMG

    GRA-SML contract generated GHC2.45bn revenue for gov’t – KPMG

    The KPMG audit report on the contracts between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), highlighted by President Akufo-Addo, shows the successful collaboration between the two companies.

    Per the audit report, the collaboration resulted in the government earning GHC2.45 billion from the downstream petroleum sector.

    “Regarding the downstream petroleum audit services, KPMG determined that there was an incremental volume of  1.7 billion litres and an incremental tax revenue of GHS 2.45 billion for the period under review. 

    “There were also qualitative benefits, including a 24/7electronic real-time monitoring of the outflow and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products at depots where SML had installed flowmeters.”

    KPMG also confirmed that SML received from the government a total of GH¢1,061,054,778.00 from 2018 to the present date when President Akufo-Addo called for the suspension of the contract.

    The president took action in January by appointing KPMG to conduct an immediate audit of the transaction between GRA and SML after a documentary by the Fourth Estate raised concerns about SML allegedly benefiting from the state without performing any work.

    The contract, initiated by the Ministry of Finance, aimed to enhance revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production, and the minerals and metals resources value chain.

    As part of his recommendations, President Akufo-Addo has directed that the fee structure under the contract be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure.

    This change is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in the collaboration between GRA and SML, ensuring that the government receives value for money.

    “…it is important to review the contract for downstream petroleum audit services, particularly the fee structure. Given the experience and proficiency of SML over the last four years of providing this service, the President has directed that the fee structure be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure. Other provisions of the contract worth reviewing include clauses on intellectual property rights, termination, and service delivery expectations,” the report from the Presidency added.

    Below is the full report by President Akufo-Addo.

  • SML partially delivered service requirements due to GRA’s lack of monitoring and evaluation processes – KPMG

    SML partially delivered service requirements due to GRA’s lack of monitoring and evaluation processes – KPMG

    A recent report by KPMG has shed light on the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) failure to effectively monitor and evaluate services provided by Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), leading to partial delivery of service requirements.

    The report released by the Communications Director of the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, highlights GRA’s lack of processes to assess the performance of services and hold both its personnel and SML accountable for non-performance.

    The investigation found that GRA engaged SML for transaction audit services without obtaining approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) three times between June 2017 and September 2017. Despite the lack of approval, GRA proceeded to engage SML as a subcontractor to West Blue, eventually taking over services from West Blue when their contract ended in December 2018.

    Regarding external price verification services, KPMG determined that SML partially delivered on the service requirements.

    “This is also partly due to GRA’s lack of instituting monitoring and evaluation processes toassess the performance of the service and hold its personnel and SML accountable for non-performance,” a portion of the statement by President Akufo-Addo on KPMG’s audit report read.

    In the downstream petroleum audit services, KPMG, however, found an incremental volume of 1.7 billion litres and an incremental tax revenue of GHS 2.45 billion for the period under review.

    The services also included 24/7 electronic real-time monitoring of outflows and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products, serving as a deterrent for under-declarations. However, SML had yet to implement the upstream petroleum audit and minerals audit services, areas that could potentially have significant revenue leakages.

    KPMG recommended that GRA conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to establish the need for these services.

    Below is the full report by President Akufo-Addo

  • Akufo-Addo orders GRA, Finance Ministry to review fee structure in SML contract

    Akufo-Addo orders GRA, Finance Ministry to review fee structure in SML contract

    President Akufo-Addo has instructed the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ministry of Finance to renegotiate the revenue assurance contract with Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    On January 2 of this year, President Nana Akufo-Addo commissioned KPMG to investigate the contract between SML and GRA, following an exposé by the Fourth Estate that suggested the state was losing a significant amount of money.

    The report was delivered to him on Wednesday, March 27, as announced in a Facebook post by Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communications at the Presidency, on Wednesday, April 3.

    President Akufo-Addo has since received the KPMG audit report regarding the revenue mobilisation contract between GRA and SML.

    The President emphasized that the renegotiation should be closely monitored and evaluated periodically to ensure it meets expectations.

    This directive was communicated through a press statement released by the Communications Director of the Presidency, Eugene Arhin.

    The decision to renegotiate the contract follows the President’s acceptance of the recommendation by KPMG after its audit into the deal.

    The audit findings prompted the need for a review of the revenue assurance contract, highlighting areas where improvements are necessary to enhance its effectiveness.

    “There is a clear need for the downstream petroleum audit services provided by SML. GRA and the State have benefited from these services since SML commenced providing them. There has been an increase in volumes of 1.7 billion litres and an increase in tax revenue to the State of GHS 2.45 billion. KPMG also observed that there were qualitative benefits, including a 24/7 electronic real-time monitoring of outflow and partial monitoring of inflows of petroleum products at depots where SML had installed flowmeters and six levels of reconciliation done by SML.”

    “This minimises the occurrence of under-declarations. However, it is important to review the contract for downstream petroleum audit services, particularly the fee structure. Given the experience and proficiency of SML over the last four years of providing this service, the President has directed that the fee structure be changed from a variable to a fixed fee structure. Other provisions of the contract worth reviewing include clauses on intellectual property rights, termination, and service delivery expectations.”

    Below is the full report by President Akufo-Addo

  • GRA failed to obtain PPA approval for a 2-year contract with SML – KPMG

    GRA failed to obtain PPA approval for a 2-year contract with SML – KPMG

    President Akufo-Addo has made public the audit report by KPMG on the contract signed between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), delivered to him on Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

    The report released by the Communications Director of the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, finds the GRA guilty of failing to obtain approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) for contracts with Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    According to a report by KPMG, GRA sought approval from PPA three times between June 2017 and September 2017 to engage SML for transaction audit services, but approval was not granted.

    Despite this, GRA proceeded to engage SML as a subcontractor to West Blue, eventually taking over services from West Blue when their contract ended in December 2018.

    Furthermore, GRA added external price verification to the services offered by SML and signed a downstream petroleum audit agreement with SML, all without PPA approval.

    It was not until August 27, 2020, under new leadership at GRA, that PPA ratified the procurement processes used to engage SML. This raises questions about GRA’s adherence to procurement regulations and the oversight of its contracting processes.

    The lack of PPA approval for these contracts highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in GRA’s procurement practices.

    It is essential for public institutions to follow due process and obtain the necessary approvals to ensure the integrity of the procurement process and the prudent use of public funds.

    Below is the full report by President Akufo-Addo

  • GRA provides clarification on taxing incomes of Ghanaian residents

    GRA provides clarification on taxing incomes of Ghanaian residents

    Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a clarification regarding its decision to tax the foreign incomes of resident Ghanaians. 

    This comes after the initial announcement of the tax measure was met with some confusion and concern among the public amid the current economic hardship Ghanaians are already facing.

    The government announced the decision on Monday, April 15, in place of the suspended VAT on electricity, which it said created a revenue gap of about GH¢1.8 billion.

    Hence for clarity, the Authority released a statement on Monday, April 22, explaining which individuals would be affected by the said tax. 

    According to GRA, individuals considered residents for tax purposes include citizens with a permanent home in Ghana who reside in the country throughout the year, those present in Ghana for at least 183 days in any 12-month period that begins or ends within the year, and government employees or officials posted abroad, among others.

    Parts of the statement also urged individuals who are going to be affected by this tax embark on voluntary disclosure of their foreign income starting May 1 to benefit from a waiver on the interest on their account.

    “To facilitate easier declaration and payment of taxes for resident individuals to report of undisclosed incomes, the GRA has opened a special window for taxpayers to rectify their records.

    All eligible individuals are strongly encouraged to utilise this opportunity to regularise their tax affairs,” GRA added in the statement.

    The taxing of these Ghanaians is to  replace the suspended VAT on electricity, which the government stated had resulted in a revenue gap of approximately GH¢1.8 billion.

    Meanwhile, GRA defended its tax decision, citing the Tax Act 2015 (Act 896) as the legal basis for the move. 

     The Tax Act 2015 (Act 896) stipulates the rules, regulations, and procedures governing various aspects of taxation, including income tax, value-added tax (VAT), customs duties, and other levies. 

    The Act specifies the obligations of taxpayers, the powers and responsibilities of tax authorities such as the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the penalties for non-compliance. 

  • We are not losing transit trade to Togo and Ivory Coast – Customs division of GRA clarifies

    We are not losing transit trade to Togo and Ivory Coast – Customs division of GRA clarifies

    The Ghana Revenue Authority’s Customs division has refuted rumors alleging that Ghana is losing transit cargos to neighboring countries like Togo and Ivory Coast.

    During an episode of the “Eye on Port” show on Metropolitan Television in Accra, Gerald Agbettor, Chief Revenue Officer and Officer in Charge of Transit at the Customs division of GRA, affirmed that Ghana is not experiencing losses in transit cargoes. He emphasized that customs declaration data indicates growth in the volume of transit trade in the country.

    Agbettor reported that the transit trade volume for January to March 2024 increased by 136,000 metric tons compared to the same period in 2023, rising from 308,000,000 metric tons to 444,000,000 metric tons in 2024.

    “Some time ago, I joined the chorus, especially transit business from the ports to the hinterlands, they say that Ghana is losing the transit trade to other places. By my background, I was able to have access to the data manifest and when I went through it, I saw transhipment to Benin, transhipment to Togo, and it became alarming. But the fact that it is transhipment on the manifest to Togo and Benin does not mean we are losing transit trade to them,” he explained.

    The Officer in charge of Transit also disclosed that the rate of diversion in Ghana is low. However, he urged that security be tightened at the various ports and transit terminals in order to facilitate fair trade.

    Additionally, the Chief Revenue Officer praised the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority for saving the Customs division of GRA GH¢90 million in their efforts to reduce diversion rates at the port.

    He further acknowledged Ghana Link’s significant contribution, as they provided dedicated monitoring devices for house-to-house containers moving from transit terminals to transit parks.

    “It is not really rampant, but it does not mean security should be relaxed, it should rather be tightened. A meeting was recently held with stakeholders to gather data from them so it can be used to best serve customers,” he said.

    Eric Adiamah, a Council member of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders and a panelist on the show, concurred with the Chief Revenue Officer that transit operations in Ghana were flourishing. He asserted that the Port of Tema is the top choice among landlocked countries along the West African coast.

    However, he disclosed that Ghana was experiencing some loss of transit volume to neighboring countries due to regulations and the high cost associated with transit operations, despite the Port of Tema offering quality services in terms of safety and security.

    “Transit business is thriving well. Only problem we see as operators of transit business is the cost of doing the business. The volumes as my brother has said are from data I have no access to, but on the ground what we know is that we are losing some volumes to neighbouring countries like Lomé. Meanwhile, between Togo port and Tema Port, when it comes to security and quality of service, the Port of Tema is way ahead, he said.

    Mr. Adiamah expressed that the regulations overseeing transit trade are adequate to manage the diversion of transit cargo at the ports.

    He encouraged the GRA Customs division to strengthen its operational partnerships with freight forwarders to dissuade them from engaging in transit diversion.

    To deter others, he recommended that individuals caught for transit diversion offenses should face the full consequences of the law.

    “If the rules provided by the books are followed to the latter, monitored by customs and all the authorities, the rules as they stand now are enough to do the business. The new things they are bringing up, will not improve anything, they will not stop diversion, it will only worry people who do legitimate business,” he averred.

    The Officer in charge of transit explained that section 95, ACT 891, 2015, (6) of the Customs Act allowed for escorts for high risked goods under transit when the Commissioner deems it so.

    “There were suspicions that some high risk goods were likely to be diverted and because of that, we have to place escorts on them. So, it is not the entirety of the whole transit trade. High risk goods like rice, tomato paste, cooking oil, vegetable oil, ethanol, alcohol, diapers are being brought in more, hence, the directives from the Commissioner and Commissioner General that we should ensure that we put escort on them,” he explained.

  • GRA initiates awareness programs on annual income tax returns

    GRA initiates awareness programs on annual income tax returns

    The Ghana Revenue Authority designates April as Tax and Good Governance Month to inform and encourage taxpayers about filing their income tax returns and paying taxes.

    During this period, the GRA hosts seminars, workshops, and tax clinics to educate taxpayers about their responsibilities and the benefits of filing returns.

    Dr. Martin Kolbil Yamborigya, Assistant Commissioner and Head of Audit for the Large Taxpayer Office, emphasized the importance of raising awareness and reminding taxpayers of their filing obligations during a program for public sector workers.

    “We also educate them to understand that filing their tax return is not just for you to pay tax, but it also affords you or gives you the opportunity to claim certain benefits,” he said.

    He mentioned potential taxpayer benefits like child education, marital, and mortgage relief.

    “When you file your returns, you have access to that When you file your returns, you also have the opportunity to even claim an overpayment, assuming that as a result of this relief that you are enjoying, the taxes that you paid during the year is more than what you should have paid,” Dr Yamborigya said.

    “You will be in an overpayment position and then the law requires that when you have overpaid your tax, then the Commissioner General is supposed to refund that to you within 60 days after the overpayment has been established.”

    He emphasized that filing returns was mandatory, with penalties including fines and imprisonment for non-compliance.

    However, to incentivize voluntary compliance, Section 74 of the Revenue Administration Act was revised. It permits taxpayers to self-disclose accurate information to the Commissioner-General, potentially waiving penalties.

    “So we want to encourage people and this is something that is not just like a one-off amnesty. It is something that was incorporated into the law that at any time a taxpayer can always take advantage of that,” he said.


    Dr. Martin also urged individuals earning income abroad to voluntarily disclose and pay applicable taxes in Ghana, potentially avoiding penalties.

    Meanwhile, Dominic Adamnor Nortey, Chief Revenue Officer, clarified that taxing resident Ghanaians on foreign income wasn’t a recent imposition. He noted the law’s existence since 2016, mandating individuals in Ghana to declare all incomes earned, both domestically and internationally, for taxation.

    He added that enforcement of this law is now feasible due to the GRA’s enhanced information capabilities.

    “We don’t start anything when you don’t have the basis of getting information on people’s income outside. So, now that we have signed an agreement with about 170 countries where we exchange information, now we have information enough to believe that we can drive that aspect of the law and implement it successfully,” Mr Nartey said.

    “The Act is clear that anyone who earns income, whether small, big or whatever it is, you have to pay tax on it,” he said, adding that he had nothing to do with VAT at all.

  • “I was at home and saw that a new board had been constituted” – Prof. Adei recounts how he lost GRA Board Chair role

    Former Chairperson of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Professor Emeritus Stephen Adei, has revealed the circumstances surrounding his removal as the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) board chairman.

    In a recent interview with GHOne TV, Prof. Adei claimed that he was forced out of his role in 2023.

    He stated that the Akufo-Addo-led government constituted a new GRA board without informing him, effectively ending his tenure without his knowledge.

    “I was never notified of my exit [as GRA board chair]. I was at home and saw that a new board had been constituted.

    “It is the most disrespectful way of saying goodbye to any board, but this is Ghana,” he is quoted to have said by GHOne TV in a post shared on social media on April 9, 2024.

    The former NDPC chairman, also a former rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), assumed the role of GRA’s board chairman in September 2019.

    In a 2023 interview, he highlighted how his stewardship contributed to the GRA achieving its revenue targets, underscoring the fact that he served in the capacity voluntarily.

    “As board chairman of GRA, I never took a dime, but I worked diligently for GRA to meet its revenue targets.

    “With this, many saw me as being in government when I was not in government but only working for the good of the country,” he stated.

    He added, “Even as the chairman of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), I prepared a document dubbed [email protected] and wanted the buy-in of the government. To date, the government is not meeting me.”

  • GRA focuses on foreign income tax to rake in revenue in place of VAT on electricity

    GRA focuses on foreign income tax to rake in revenue in place of VAT on electricity

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has decided to monitor the foreign income of resident Ghanaians to rake in more revenue for the government in place of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity that has been suspended owing to public criticism.

    According to GRA Commissioner-General, Juliet Essiam, this will establish a sustainable revenue stream extending beyond 2024.

    Julie Essiam expressed confidence in the sustainability of this measure, emphasizing its potential to effectively replace the anticipated GH¢1.8 billion revenue target.

    The Commissioner-General, in her brief remarks at the joint IMF, BoG and Ministry of Finance press conference held in Accra on April 13, 2024, noted that monitoring the foreign income of resident Ghanaians is not a novel measure since it has existed within the legal framework for some time, albeit lacking effective implementation.

    “We [GRA] will specifically speak to the measure that is replacing the VAT on electricity. So, the measure that we put in place is a compliance measure on foreign income of resident Ghanaians.

    “This measure is already in the law, as the minister said, so it is not a new measure. The difference is that its implementation and application have not been implemented effectively,” the GRA Commissioner-General said

    She noted that with the assistance of the Organization for African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACD), the Authority has gone through sustainable processes and structures to ensure that when implemented, the tax measure would go beyond 2024 in its revenue numbers.

    “So this is the measure that, together with the Government of Ghana and our mother ministry, the Ministry of Finance, is going to take place or is going to replace the VAT on electricity,” she added.

    As part of Ghana’s governmental initiatives, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, this action aims to address the country’s fiscal requirements, particularly in revenue generation, with a focus on long-term solutions.

  • Foreign income tax of resident Ghanaians to replace VAT on electricity – GRA

    Foreign income tax of resident Ghanaians to replace VAT on electricity – GRA

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), under the leadership of Commissioner-General Julie Essiam, has introduced a new compliance measure focusing on the foreign income of resident Ghanaians.

    This initiative is intended to replace the suspended Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity and is aimed at generating sustainable revenue beyond 2024.

    Commissioner-General Essiam stated that while this measure is not new and has been part of the law for some time, it has not been effectively implemented until now.

    “We [GRA] will specifically speak to the measure that is replacing the VAT on electricity. So, the measure that we put in place is a compliance measure on foreign income of resident Ghanaians.

    “This measure is already in the law, as the minister said, so it is not a new measure. The difference is that its implementation and application have not been implemented effectively,” the GRA Commissioner-General said in her brief remarks at the joint IMF, BoG and Ministry of Finance presser held in Accra on April 13, 2024.

    Essiam added that “The GRA, with support from the Organization for African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACD), has refined the processes and structures to ensure effective implementation.”

    “So for us to implement this measure, we have, with the aid and assistance of the OACD, gone through sustainable processes and structures to ensure that when we implement this measure, the sustainability of this measure is going to go beyond 2024 in our revenue numbers.

    “So this is the measure that, together with the Government of Ghana and our mother ministry, the Ministry of Finance, is going to take place or is going to replace the VAT on electricity,” she added.

    This initiative is part of the Ghanaian government’s collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Finance to address the country’s fiscal needs, particularly in revenue mobilization.

    Julie Essiam expressed confidence that this measure will not only be sustainable but will also effectively replace the projected revenue target of GH¢1.8 billion, signifying a significant change in the nation’s tax policy.

  • Don’t hoard KPMG report on SML-GRA contract – Domelevo tells Akufo-Addo

    Don’t hoard KPMG report on SML-GRA contract – Domelevo tells Akufo-Addo

    Former Auditor-General, Daniel Domelevo, has called on President Akufo-Addo to promptly release the KPMG audit report on the revenue mobilisation contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).

    Domelevo stressed that the report, which was commissioned using state funds, belongs to the Ghanaian people and should be made public without delay.

    He urged the President to prioritize accountability to the people of Ghana over any attempts to shield wrongdoing within his government.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Monday, April 8, Domelevo urged President Akufo-Addo to release the report to the public without any attempts to cover up its findings.

    He warned that further delays in releasing the report could lead to negative perceptions about the Presidency among the public.

    “What I expected was that immediately the report was ready, it should be made public because the accountability is not to the President but to the people of Ghana. The money is people’s funds. So anytime those reports are ready, they must be put in the public.”

    On January 2 of this year, President Nana Akufo-Addo commissioned KPMG to investigate the contract between SML and GRA following an exposé by the Fourth Estate.

    President Akufo-Addo has since received the KPMG audit report regarding the revenue mobilisation contract between GRA and SML. The report was delivered to him on Wednesday, March 27, as announced in a Facebook post by Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communications at the Presidency, on Wednesday, April 3.

    Mr. Arhin further mentioned that President Akufo-Addo is currently reviewing the findings of the audit report and will communicate his decisions to the Ghanaian public in due course.

    Subsequently, some Ghanaians have demanded the immediate release of the report. However, Private Legal Practitioner, Mr. Martin Kpebu, has urged Ghanaians to grant the Presidency ample time to release the KPMG report, emphasizing that this approach would ensure that all individuals mentioned in the report have the opportunity to respond appropriately.

  • Workers’ union at GRA urge govt to provide assistance to improve revenue collection

    Workers’ union at GRA urge govt to provide assistance to improve revenue collection

    The Ghana Revenue Authority Workers Union (GRAWU) has urged the government to support GRA with the right technology and resources to boost revenue collection.

    Addressing the 10th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Accra, Mr Theophilus Kwesi Ehun, the Chairman of GRAWU, said the GRA was prepared to engage the government on ways that would enhance revenue collection.

    “Whatever strategy, whatever idea that it is that will help our work, that is what we stand to do. Without GRA, we have no union, and without GRA, the economy cannot also thrive. So we call on the government that our doors are opened.”

    The NEC meeting, which was held on the theme “Transparency and Fairness in Tax System Revenue Mobilization: The Role of Labor,” aimed to promote transparency and efficient tax administration.

    Mr. Ehun stressed that the GRA staff’s dedication and commitment were instrumental in achieving revenue targets.

    He underscored GRA’s vital role in the economy, noting that without GRA, the union wouldn’t exist, and the economy would struggle.

    In an address delivered on behalf of the Commissioner of Customs, Alhaji Seidu Iddrisu Iddisah, Assistant Commissioner Mr. Fechin Akoto emphasized that transparency and fairness in the tax system were essential for boosting revenue mobilization. He highlighted the crucial role of labor in this process.

    He emphasized that a robust tax system was vital for a nation, enabling investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social services. Conversely, a system perceived as opaque or unfair breeds discontent and discourages compliance.

    Mr. Iddisah reiterated GRA’s commitment to enhancing transparency in its operations. This includes simplifying tax codes, providing clear and accessible information to taxpayers, and ensuring efficient communication channels for inquiries and feedback.

    “By demystifying the tax system, we empower citizens to understand their obligations and contribute meaningfully,” he said, adding that fairness was essential to ensure that certain segments did not disproportionately carry the burden while a select few avoid their fair share,” he said.

    He encouraged Ghanaian workers to support progressive tax structures that ensure high-income earners contribute proportionally.

    He also emphasized the importance of educating members about their tax obligations and the benefits of a robust revenue system.

    “Together, through transparency and fairness, we can build a tax system that is not just efficient but also inspires trust and fosters a sense of shared responsibility amongst all Ghanaians,” he added.

    “And we know that last year or so there were dismissals. But there’s still room to do more because it’s still happening. It’s still the elephant in the room in the banking sector and needs to be highlighted, and discussed and ways to see how it can be banished,” she added.

  • New GRA boss likely to trigger controversy, here is why

    New GRA boss likely to trigger controversy, here is why


    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo Appoints Julie Essiam as New GRA Commissioner-General

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has made a significant change in leadership at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) by appointing Julie Essiam as the new Commissioner-General, replacing Rev Dr Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah.

    The appointment of the 61-year-old Julie Essiam is expected to spark controversy, as one of the key reasons for the heightened campaign for Rev Dr Ammishaddai’s exit was his age.

    Critics argued strongly that Rev Dr Ammishaddai, aged 62, had surpassed the age limit for public officials and therefore needed to resign or be dismissed by the president.

    According to the National Pensions Regulatory Authority, the retirement age in Ghana is legislatively set between 55 and 60 years. Fifty-five to fifty-nine years is considered voluntary retirement age, while 60 years is compulsory retirement age.

    It is worth noting that concerned citizens had previously gathered at the GRA headquarters to demand the removal of Rev Dr Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah and Julie Essiam, who at the time was the Commissioner Responsible for Support Services at GRA.

    In a statement, the protesters pointed out that both Rev. Ammishaddai and Ms. Julie Essiam were still in office despite surpassing the retirement age of 60.

    Another concern raised in the statement was the continued tenure of Rev. Ammishaddai and Ms. Julie Essiam without valid contracts, which was seen as a violation of the country’s retirement laws.

    Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament, Sam Nartey George, also expressed criticism of the situation, questioning why the rules were allegedly disregarded to allow the two to continue serving at GRA.

    In a post on social media on January 30, Sam George wrote, “For the past twenty seven (27) months, he has occupied the position without a contract…The question we need answers to is why Ken Ofori-Atta has kept his darling Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai at post for another twenty-seven (27) months without a contract?”

  • GRA to have Julie Essiam as it first female Commissioner-General

    GRA to have Julie Essiam as it first female Commissioner-General

    Ms. Julie Essiam, who previously served as the Commissioner for the Support Services Division at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), is set to lead the organization as its new Commissioner-General.

    This follows the dismissal of Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah as Commissioner-General by President Akufo-Addo on March 27, 2024.

    In response to the leadership change, the GRA’s board has been dissolved, with plans underway to assemble a new board.

    Ms. Essiam’s promotion comes after her tenure as Commissioner for the Support Services Division of the GRA, where she served as the Deputy Commissioner-General.

    Her professional background in banking and dedication to sustainable transformation and development work have garnered recognition.

    Previously, Ms. Julie Essiam held the position of Group Executive at the Ecobank Group, overseeing branches across 40 countries worldwide.

    She is also known for her founding role in Africans4Africa (A4A), an initiative advocating for collaborative efforts among African leaders for the continent’s development.

    Ms. Essiam brings extensive experience to her new role, having served on various boards and committees, including those of the Ecobank Foundation and the Global Fund.

  • Profile: New GRA Boss, Julie Essiam

    Profile: New GRA Boss, Julie Essiam

    Madam Julie Essiam, the Deputy Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) overseeing Support Services, has been appointed as the new Commissioner General of the GRA, replacing Rev. Dr. Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah, who is reported to have been dismissed.

    The GRA’s Board Chairman, Dr. Tony Oteng Gyasi, has reportedly resigned due to his strong opposition to Essiam’s appointment, alleging that she is favored by former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

    Reports indicate that some GRA staff are vehemently against Essiam’s promotion to the top role due to her strict and principled management style. They are reportedly planning to protest against the appointment through various means.

    Earlier this year, Rev. Dr. Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah faced criticism for staying in office for two years beyond the compulsory retirement age without a contract.

    Last week, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia criticized the GRA boss for publicly pursuing corporate tax defaulters.

    Both the GRA Board Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer (Commissioner-General) are appointed by the President of Ghana.

    Profile

    Ms. Julie Essiam is an accomplished Banking Executive with a professional passion for sustainable transformation and development work; whether it is developing and transforming businesses, developing talent or transforming communities. Ms. Julie Essiam is currently the Commissioner responsible for the Support Services Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority.

    Prior to her appointment Ms. Julie Essiam was the Group Executive at the Ecobank Group with branches covering 40 countries across North America, Europe, Africa and other parts of the world.

    With a passion for transforming communities, and as the initiator of several and impactful community based programs. Ms. Julie Essiam is a firm believer in investing in the next generation and therefore has dedicated the last fifteen years of her professional life working with the youth in monitoring and supporting them shape their thinking around their respective life journeys.

    She is the concept originator and the founder of Africans4Africa (A4A) initiation; a private sector led development organization that calls for a collaborative effort across the leadership of Africa to contribute to the successful achievement of an impactful transformation of the continent towards a thriving and prosperous Africa.

    Ms. Julie Essiam was a member of Ecobank Group Executive Committee, and has been on the boards of Ecobank Zambia, the Ecobank Foundation and three board committees of the Ecobank Group-Finance and Audit, Risk and HR. Ms. Julie Essiam was also the immediate past Board Member of the Global fund and the President of the Private Sector delegation of the Global fund.

  • GRA Boss, Rev. Ammishaddai sacked

    GRA Boss, Rev. Ammishaddai sacked

    President Akufo-Addo has removed Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah from his position as the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) with immediate effect as of Wednesday, March 27.

    The President has also dissolved the GRA board, although no specific reason was provided. It is expected that a new board will be appointed by President Akufo-Addo in the near future.

    Julie Essiam has been reported as the replacement for Rev. Dr. Owusu-Amoah, according to citinewsroom.com.

    Pressure for Dr. Ammishaddai’s removal had been mounting, with various groups arguing that he had exceeded the legal age limit for public officers to remain in office.

    In December 2023, the Concerned Citizens of Ghana had threatened protests over Dr. Ammishaddai’s continued tenure, along with that of his deputy, Ms. Julie Essiam.

    Additionally, the Minority in Parliament, led by Ningo Prampram MP Sam George, had demanded his dismissal, referring to Rev. Ammishaddai as persona non grata due to his tenure beyond the mandated 60 years.

    Mr. George cautioned companies against engaging with Dr. Ammishaddai, stating that he lacked the authority to commit the state to any contractual obligations.

  • Akufo-Addo allegedly dissolves GRA Board amid tax criticism by Bawumia

    Akufo-Addo allegedly dissolves GRA Board amid tax criticism by Bawumia

    The Board of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has been dissolved, and President Akufo-Addo is expected to announce a new Board by the end of the day, Citinews reports.

    While no specific reason was given for the dissolution of the Dr. Anthony Oteng-Gyasi-led Board, reports suggest there were recent disagreements within the Board.

    The President’s decision comes shortly after New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia accused the GRA of harassing businesses for taxes due to unrealistic targets.

    The dissolved GRA Board was chaired by Dr. Anthony Oteng-Gyasi, with members including Mr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, Mad. Adelaide Ahwireng, Prof. Peter Ohene Kyei, Mr. Kwabena Boaten, Mrs. Dela Obeng-Sakyi, Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afari, and Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei.

    Additionally, there are unconfirmed reports that the Commissioner-General of the GRA, Rev. Amishaddai Owusu Amoah, has been relieved of his post.

    GRA sources acknowledge hearing the rumors but cannot confirm them without an official statement. While some workers claim the GRA boss was present at the office on Tuesday, he has not been seen on Wednesday, March 27.

    In December 2023, a group called the Concerned Citizens of Ghana threatened protests over the continuous stay of Dr. Ammishaddai and a deputy commissioner, Ms. Julie Essiam, in office. In January 2024, Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, called on Parliament to declare the Commissioner-General a persona non grata as he had exceeded the mandated 60 years, suggesting he had no contract with the state.

  • You introduced those taxes, don’t blame GRA for your mess – Minority goes hard on Bawumia

    You introduced those taxes, don’t blame GRA for your mess – Minority goes hard on Bawumia

    The Minority in Parliament has strongly criticized the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, for his recent comments regarding the revenue mobilization methods employed by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    During a meeting with the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Bawumia expressed concerns about the alleged misuse of tax collection by GRA staff, citing it as a pretext for harassing businesses.

    The NDC MPs have deemed Dr. Bawumia’s remarks unsubstantial, particularly considering his position as the Vice President of the country.

    In a press statement released on Tuesday, March 26, and signed by their leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, they emphasized the importance of accountability. They urged Dr Bawumia and the government to acknowledge their role in creating what they perceive as a high tax regime.

    The Minority expressed surprise at Dr. Bawumia’s public criticism of the GRA, arguing that the authority is simply fulfilling its constitutionally mandated duty of tax enforcement.

    Additionally, they argued that the Akufo-Addo administration’s policies of excessive taxation have made Ghana a less appealing destination for business activities.

    “It is shocking to note that Alhaji Bawumia had the audacity to single out GRA workers for attack and condemnation after the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government had imposed a lot of taxes on businesses and Ghanaians.”

    “The government’s huge appetitie for taxes has created a high tax regime which has made the country unattractive for doing business. It is therefore not surprising that many businesses in Ghana are relocating to other countries in the West African sub-region. This spells doom and gloom for Ghanaian employees as jobs which would have otherwise been filled by them get exported as a consequence of the relocation of businesses from the country.”

    Organized Labour, in a statement dated Friday, March 22, 2024, has labeled Dr. Bawumia’s comments as “unfortunate,” viewing them as a discrediting of the dedicated efforts of GRA employees.

    They cautioned that such remarks could lead to worker dissatisfaction, hinder revenue collection, and incite industrial unrest.

    The group urged the Vice President to acknowledge the significant strides made by the GRA or refrain from making remarks that undermine their efforts.

    They also highlighted the inconsistency in Dr. Bawumia’s position, considering his leadership role in the Economic Management Team and his knowledge of the government’s targets for the Authority through the Ministry of Finance.

    “We would like to state unequivocally that, we the workers of GRA find this statement unfortunate and consider it as an attack on the efforts of the hard-working staff of the Authority which if not discontinued, would incur the displeasure of workers, disrupt revenue collection efforts and breed industrial disharmony.”

  • GRA to refund wrongful e-levy charges during internet disruptions

    GRA to refund wrongful e-levy charges during internet disruptions

    Following recent internet disruptions, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has addressed concerns about the inaccurate imposition of the E-Levy on certain electronic transactions.

    The GRA explained that the interruption in internet connectivity affected the real-time routing of electronic transactions to the Electronic Transfer Levy Management and Assurance System (ELMAS), prompting them to take immediate action to rectify the issue.

    To mitigate the impact of the internet outage, the GRA has implemented temporary measures known as “Offline Transactions.”

    These measures ensure that the E-Levy is applied only to eligible transactions, even if there are delays in routing due to the internet disruption.

    Additionally, the GRA is committed to correcting any wrongful charges that may have occurred during this period.

    They acknowledge that some Charging Entities may have mistakenly deducted E-Levy for transactions exempt from such charges.

    To address this, the GRA is working closely with Charging Entities to quickly identify and reimburse any incorrect deductions.

    They also stated that Charging Entities are responsible for reimbursing customers for any wrongly applied E-Levy charges, following the completion of the GRA’s refund processes.

    Through these proactive measures, the GRA aims to ensure a smooth and equitable E-Levy collection process, despite the challenges caused by internet disruptions.

  • Please don’t scrap e-levy – GRA to political parties

    Please don’t scrap e-levy – GRA to political parties

    Amid promises from political parties to abolish the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) following the 2024 general elections, Charles Addae, the Assistant Commissioner of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has urged whichever party emerges victorious to retain the tax measure.

    He emphasised the importance of maintaining this revenue source to bolster the state’s finances, cautioning that its elimination could result in heightened government reliance on loans.

    Addae underscored the significance of sustaining the E-Levy in enhancing the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio and stimulating the local economy.

    He emphasised that adequate revenue is essential for effective governance and urged the government to prioritise fiscal sustainability.

    Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Taxing Mobile Money: Lessons and Ways Forward Conference held in Accra on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, the GRA Assistant Commissioner said, “It is good that people pay tax. We are having some political talks about whether the tax may be cancelled in the future.

    “We are pleading that it is better we sustain the revenue that is coming from it. The GHC1.2 billion that was raised in 2023 helped fill some holes in the country; otherwise, we may be depending too much on loans, which is not helping the economy.”

    “My plea is that we maintain and help increase the tax on the GDP of the nation to help the development agenda of the government. Whichever government is in power needs revenue to run. Without tax revenue, the country cannot run,” he added.

    It may be remembered that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), declared his intention on February 7, 2024, to eliminate the electronic transfer levy if he were to be elected as Ghana’s president.

    “To accomplish this, there will be no taxes on digital payments under my administration. The E-Levy will, therefore, be abolished,” Dr. Bawumia stated.

    Unfair E-Levy tax will be scrapped if I’m made president – Mahama

    John Dramani Mahama, his opponent, also pledged to abolish the E-Levy during a speech at the University of Ghana. The NDC flagbearer argued that the tax was unjust and hindered citizens from embracing a cashless society.

    “It is an inequitable tax; it’s not a fair tax It prevents people from taking advantage of our move towards a cashless society and so when NDC comes, we will remove that tax. I’ve said it bluntly,” Mahama said.

    The government introduced the E-Levy as part of its efforts to enhance domestic revenue mobilisation. In response to considerable criticism, the E-Levy tax was subsequently reduced from 1.5% to 1%.

  • Parliamentary Committee lauds SML-Ghana amid scrutiny

    Parliamentary Committee lauds SML-Ghana amid scrutiny

    Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) has received praise from Samuel Atta Akyea, Chairperson of the Mines and Energy Committee of Parliament, following a visit by the committee to SML’s office in Tema.

    Mr. Atta Akyea lauded SML’s setup as “world-class” and encouraged other stakeholders to visit the facility to understand the company’s impact on the country’s revenue mobilization efforts.

    The visit comes amidst scrutiny over the necessity, cost, and duration of SML’s contract with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for revenue assurance services in the petroleum and mineral sectors, triggered by a documentary titled ‘The GH¢ 3 Billion Lie’ produced by media entity, The Fourth Estate.

    In response to the concerns raised, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo instructed advisory firm KPMG to conduct an audit of the contract.

    Mr. Atta Akyea, while refraining from prejudicing the case, expressed the committee’s objective during their visit to SML. He stated, “We came here to familiarize ourselves with this matter… We want the President to complete his side and we will engage them; but I believe, so far, that this is a world-class set-up.”

    He clarified that the committee would reserve judgment on the contract’s propriety until after engaging formally with SML following the release of the KPMG report.

    Expressing satisfaction with the technological prowess exhibited by SML, Mr. Atta Akyea suggested that the company’s operations have played a significant role in the nation’s revenue mobilization framework.

    Last week, data from the tax authority indicated a notable increase in revenue from the petroleum sector following the implementation of the revenue assurance contract in December 2019.

    Mr. Atta Akyea, however, criticized premature conclusions drawn by some individuals lacking sufficient information, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigations.

    In response to allegations raised in a December 2023 investigative report by The Fourth Estate, SML denied irregularities in its contract and welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend operations pending the audit.

    SML remains confident that the audit will provide a transparent and accurate depiction of its operations, while concurrently pursuing legal action against The Fourth Estate for defamation.

    The ongoing scrutiny underscores the complexities surrounding SML’s operations and the importance of transparent and accountable practices in the country’s revenue mobilization efforts.

  • Joint task force cracks down on smuggled vegetable oil in Ghanaian market

    Joint task force cracks down on smuggled vegetable oil in Ghanaian market

    A collaborative effort involving the Tree Crop Development Authority, the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and National Security has initiated a rigorous operation aimed at curbing the influx of smuggled vegetable oil into the Ghanaian market.

    The operation, spanning the Greater Accra Region and parts of the Central Region, commenced with targeted inspections of shops in key areas such as Kasoa, Mallam Market, McCarthy Hill, and Adabraka.

    In McCarthy Hill, Perfect End Logistics was instructed to cease operations following the discovery of suspected smuggled vegetable oil on its premises. Despite claims by shop attendants that the oil was locally produced, markings indicating “Made in Malaysia” raised concerns about its authenticity.

    Head of the task force, Paul Amaning, emphasized the importance of legitimate importation, underscoring the need to crack down on illegally imported goods.

    Similar exercises were conducted in Kasoa New Market, where retailers pointed fingers at their suppliers for the smuggled products. Three shop attendants were apprehended by the National Security taskforce for attempting to obstruct the operation by withholding access to a shop containing smuggled vegetable oil.

    Market women were also sensitized about the hazards associated with selling unbranded oil, highlighting the risks posed to consumers.

    In Mallam Market, one shop faced closure as a result of the operation, prompting concerns from shop attendants about the impact on their livelihoods. The task force then proceeded to Adabraka, where shop attendants defended their products’ authenticity despite markings indicating “Made in Indonesia.”

    The joint task force’s operation reflects a concerted effort to combat the illegal trade of vegetable oil in Ghana, emphasizing the importance of adherence to regulatory standards and the promotion of locally sourced products in the market.

  • GRA official highlights importance of E-Levy in tax collection

    GRA official highlights importance of E-Levy in tax collection

    Assistant Commissioner in charge of Strategy, Research, Policy, and Programmes at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Charles Addae, has emphasized the significance of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) in bringing the informal sector into the tax net.

    Addae explained that relying solely on the formal sector for revenue generation is insufficient, prompting the introduction of the E-Levy to ensure broader participation in tax payment, especially from individuals in the informal sector.

    During an interview at the Taxing Mobile Money, Lessons, and Ways Forward Conference held in Accra on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, Addae disclosed that the government had successfully collected GH¢1.2 billion from the E-Levy, indicating the effectiveness of the tax.

    “Ghana introduced E-Levy in 2022, and we’ve had challenges implementing this tax. However, in 2022, we collected an amount of 600 million, and in 2023, we raised GH¢1.2 billion from the E-Levy,” stated Addae.

    He emphasized the need to explore new avenues to enhance tax revenue without overburdening existing taxpayers, highlighting the importance of tapping into the informal sector to bolster revenue collection.

    “The formal system has depended on existing businesses and employees in raising national revenue. There is a need to go into the informal sector to raise revenue to support the country,” he added.

    The Taxing Mobile Money conference, organized by the International Centre for Tax and Development in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority, provided a platform to discuss strategies for improving domestic revenue mobilization.

    The introduction of the E-Levy forms part of the government’s efforts to enhance domestic revenue mobilization. Following public criticism, the E-Levy tax was revised downward from 1.5% to 1%, demonstrating responsiveness to stakeholder concerns.

  • GREDA plans implementation of Real Estate Investment Trust to address housing challenges

    GREDA plans implementation of Real Estate Investment Trust to address housing challenges

    President of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Patrick Ebo Bonful, has announced plans to launch the GREDA Real Estate Investment Trust (GREIT) as part of efforts to tackle demand-side challenges in the housing sector.

    Speaking at the GREDA CEO’s meeting on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, Bonful highlighted the Trust’s aim to provide essential investments to bridge the gap created by insufficient home mortgage finance. He emphasized the need for legislative changes, including the review of the Home Mortgage Finance Act 2008, to incorporate non-bank financial institutions and non-deposit taking corporate organizations in providing home mortgage financing.

    “I’m happy to inform you that plans are well underway to birth GREDA Real Estate Investment Trust (GREIT) to address the demand side challenges or help fill the gap created by inadequate home mortgage financing,” disclosed Bonful.

    He pointed out the challenges faced in delivering affordable housing options, particularly for low and middle-income individuals, citing high land costs, land litigation, and limited availability of spaces in urban and peri-urban areas. Additionally, the rising costs of building materials and labor contribute to the difficulty in providing affordable and sustainable housing options.

    Bonful called on governments and policymakers to prioritize affordable housing delivery by allocating funding and resources towards housing initiatives. Currently, Ghana’s housing deficit stands at 1.8 million units, prompting GREDA and other stakeholders to advocate for urgent action from the government to address the situation.

    The GREDA Real Estate Investment Trust (GREIT) initiative signifies a proactive approach by GREDA to address housing challenges and contribute to bridging the housing gap in Ghana. As the housing deficit persists, stakeholders continue to advocate for collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to provide affordable housing solutions for all citizens.

  • Illegitimate GRA Boss will be dealt with – PAC chair vows

    Illegitimate GRA Boss will be dealt with – PAC chair vows


    Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), James Klutse Avedzi, has issued a warning to Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Rev. Ammishadai Owusu-Amoah, indicating that he will be personally held accountable for working without the renewal of his contract.

    Rev. Ammishadai attracted public attention by declining to respond to a question posed by Samuel Nartey George, a member of the Public Accounts Committee and MP for Ningo-Prampram, regarding his age.

    Accompanied by Deputy Finance Minister Abena Osei Asare, the GRA chief struggled to provide a straightforward answer.

    Despite efforts by some committee members to dismiss the question, Rev. Ammishadai eventually admitted that his two-year contract, which was awarded to him after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60, had expired without renewal.

    In an interview with EIB Network’s Parliamentary Correspondent Ibrahim Alhassan, Committee Chairman James Klutse Avedzi cautioned that the GRA chief would face consequences if he continued to hold office without a contract.

    The Ketu North MP defended his decision to entertain the public interest question raised by the Ningo-Prampram MP.

    “No, we don’t have it. He hasn’t given us the contract. He told us at the committee that when the issue came up and other members were trying to stop the member who asked the question or arguing the question should not be allowed, I said the question should be answered because the person is a public officer. Once you’re a public officer, there is nothing personal, especially about your age,” he said.

    According to Mr. Avedzi, individuals above retirement age can be engaged but not beyond 5 years and thus the decision to engage the GRA boss is not illegal.

    “The law says if you are above a certain age, you go on retirement, but if your expertise is needed, you can be given a contract. So if I’m over 60 years old and I’m given a contract, I’m covered.

    “I said, Why can’t you tell us your age, Why can’t you tell us that you have a contract? So, go ahead and answer the question. And he said, ‘Oh, I am 62 and so so and so months. I have a contract.’

    “The law says that when you’re 60 years old and you’re given a contract, you can be given a two-year contract that can be renewed for another two years but all put together, it must not be more than five years. That’s what the law says,” he added.

    Mr. Avedzi wondered why the Commissioner General had not been given another contract after the expiration of the earlier one.

    “So if you’re 62 and you have a contract, you’re covered. If you’re 63, you have a contract, and if that contract is renewed, you’re covered. But he told us that the renewal of his contract has not been done, as at the time we were asking him the questions.”

    The former deputy minority leader, however, did not fault the GRA boss for his inability to explain why his contract had not been renewed. According to him, the matter rests with the appointing authority.

    “He could not tell us the reason why he had not been given a contract. He’s not the one to give himself the contract; it’s the government or the minister. If I were the minister and I still wanted him to be there, I would just renew the contract for him.

    “But if I don’t want him to be there, I will not renew it. If he continues to stay there without a contract, then he is breaking the law. He will be personally held liable. After the issue has come up and you have still not been given a renewal contract, are you still there? Then you’re working illegally,” he warned.

  • PAC Chairman warns GRA boss of legal liability for contract lapse

    PAC Chairman warns GRA boss of legal liability for contract lapse

    Chairman of the Public Accounts Committeet (PAC), James Klutse Avedzi has issued a stern warning to the Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Rev. Ammishadai Owusu-Amoah, cautioning him that he will be personally held liable for working without the renewal of his contract.

    The warning comes in the wake of a public revelation made by Rev. Ammishadai during a parliamentary session, where he disclosed that his two-year contract had expired without renewal. This disclosure followed a tense exchange between the GRA boss and Ningo-Prampram MP, Samuel Nartey George, who had queried Rev. Ammishadai about his age.

    In response to the questioning, Rev. Ammishadai hesitated to provide a straight answer, prompting further scrutiny from committee members. Eventually, he admitted that his contract, granted after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60, had lapsed without renewal.

    Chairman James Klutse Avedzi, in an interview with EIB Network‘s Parliamentary Correspondent Ibrahim Alhassan, emphasized that Rev. Ammishadai would be held accountable if he continued to occupy his position without a valid contract. Avedzi justified his decision to allow the public interest question, asserting that transparency regarding the status of public officers is paramount.

    Furthermore, Avedzi clarified that while individuals above retirement age can be engaged for up to five years, the failure to renew Rev. Ammishadai’s contract raises legal concerns. He questioned why the Commissioner General had not been offered another contract after the expiration of his initial two-year term.

    Despite acknowledging that the GRA boss may not be responsible for the contract renewal process, Avedzi stressed that working without a valid contract constitutes a violation of the law. He underscored that the responsibility for contract renewal lies with the appointing authority, and failure to adhere to legal protocols could result in personal liability for Rev. Ammishadai.

    The warning from the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee highlights the importance of adherence to legal procedures and transparency in public office appointments. It serves as a reminder to public officers of their obligations under the law and the consequences of operating without valid contracts.

  • Dafeamekpor to sue GRA boss for being at post without contract

    Dafeamekpor to sue GRA boss for being at post without contract

    The Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor, has suggested that the Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Rev Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah, may face legal repercussions for continuing in his role without a contract extension from the Ministry of Finance.

    Rev Amishaddai Owusu-Amoah, who exceeds the age of 60, is mandated by law to possess a valid contract to serve as the GRA boss. However, he has been in office for approximately two years without the necessary authorization from the appointing authority.

    According to Mr. Dafeamekpor, Rev Owusu-Amoah should not be in his position without proper documentation and predicts that legal action will be taken against him.

    “The collusion and the cronyism and politics is what is eating our system away. For this matter if it is not politics, which country will this happen? And he too, it doesn’t bother him to prompt that you must regularize my stay?… People [like Rev Owusu-Amoah] don’t care any longer but a day is coming that they will care,” Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor said in an interview with Okay FM.

    In an interview with Okay FM, Mr. Dafeamekpor expressed concern about the prevailing issues of collusion, cronyism, and politics within the system.

    He emphasized that in any other country, such a situation would not be tolerated, questioning why Rev Owusu-Amoah has not taken steps to regularize his stay.

    Mr. Dafeamekpor highlighted the violation of working without a contract, drawing attention to the Auditor General’s repeated citations of this issue.


    Despite Rev Owusu-Amoah acknowledging, during a Public Accounts Committee session, that he was over 60 and had been requested by the Finance Minister to continue with a written contract, the government has yet to take immediate steps to regularize his tenure at the GRA, as per Mr. Dafeamekpor’s perspective.

  • KPMG submits audit report of GRA/SML contract today

    KPMG submits audit report of GRA/SML contract today

    KPMG is scheduled to present its audit findings on the transaction involving the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML) to President Akufo-Addo on Friday, February 23.

    Originally expected on Tuesday, January 16, the deadline was extended to accommodate a request from KPMG, as confirmed by the President.

    A statement by Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the presidency, on Wednesday, January 24, stated, “KPMG is to submit its final report no later than Friday, 23rd February 2024.”

    The scrutiny intensified after an investigative report by the Fourth Estate in December 2023 implicated SML, the GRA, and the Ministry of Finance. The report alleged that the GRA had awarded SML a 10-year contract worth $100 million annually, raising suspicions of irregularities.

    SML refuted claims of a decade-long contract, asserting instead that it had secured a 5-year agreement. The GRA, in a statement released on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procedures were followed in engaging SML’s services.

    However, on January 2, 2024, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo directed SML to halt its ongoing revenue assurance operations and mandated an immediate audit of the contract with GRA and the Ministry of Finance, assigning KPMG to the task.

    In response, SML expressed confidence that the audit outcome would provide clarity and accuracy regarding its operations.

  • SML contract boosts GRA revenue in petroleum downstream to more than GHS12bn+

    SML contract boosts GRA revenue in petroleum downstream to more than GHS12bn+

    Following the execution of the revenue assurance contract between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), details have emerged showcasing favorable outcomes for the country’s revenue.

    The contract, inked in December 2019, saw operations kick off in June 2020 following a one-month pilot phase, resulting in a noticeable uptick in revenue. Documents accessed by Joy Business from the Ghana Revenue Authority indicate that revenue has soared to GH¢12,981,376,688.

    This substantial revenue surge suggests that the contract has been advantageous for Ghana’s financial well-being. However, amidst these positive developments, SML has initiated legal action against the media outlet responsible for the release of “The GH¢3bn Lie Documentary.”

    In a lawsuit filed on Thursday, February 15, SML alleges that the publication has inflicted irreparable harm to its reputation in the public sphere, leading to adverse repercussions for its operations. Consequently, SML is seeking compensation amounting to ¢10 million.

    “Plaintiff says that the onslaught of backlash from the public which has arisen from the Defendants’ false reportage has adversely impacted Plaintiff’s operations.”

    “Plaintiff says that although it published rejoinders to the Defendants’ false reportage, the Defendants have failed and/or refused to retract and apologise to the plaintiff for the false information they have consistently peddled.”

    In addition to seeking compensation, Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) is petitioning for a perpetual injunction against the publication of further defamatory material, a retraction and apology, and any other orders deemed appropriate by the High Court.

    The Fourth Estate, in a December 2023 investigative report, implicated Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance, alleging irregularities. The report claimed that GRA granted SML a purported 10-year contract with an annual payment of $100 million, sparking concerns about possible improprieties. SML countered the claim, asserting that it had a five-year contract instead. In response, GRA, in a statement on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procurement procedures were followed.

    On January 3, 2024, SML welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend its ongoing revenue assurance operations and undergo an audit of its contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance. President Akufo-Addo appointed KPMG, an audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to conduct the immediate audit. SML expressed confidence that the audit would provide a clear and accurate depiction of its operations.

    However, President Akufo-Addo granted an extension to audit firm KPMG to complete its audit following its request. Following the extension, KPMG is expected to submit its report on Friday, February 23.

    Regarding the deal, the revenue collection and administration body contracted SML to perform revenue audits and assurance control measures in the petroleum downstream sector.

  • Ghana’s revenue in petroleum downstream surges by over GH¢12bn due to SML-GRA contract

    Ghana’s revenue in petroleum downstream surges by over GH¢12bn due to SML-GRA contract

    The contract between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has yielded positive results for the country’s revenue, according to details emerging from the GRA.

    Documents from the GRA, according to reports, show that revenue has surged by GH¢12,981,376,688.00 since the contract’s implementation, indicating its effectiveness in boosting the country’s financial interests.

    However, amidst these positive outcomes, SML has taken legal action against a media outlet for releasing “The GH¢3bn Lie Documentary.”

    In a lawsuit filed on Thursday, February 15, SML claims that the publication has damaged its reputation irreparably, leading to negative consequences for its operations.

    SML is seeking ¢10 million in compensation, including one million for defamation and nine million for exemplary damages, citing reckless and malicious reporting.

    “Plaintiff says that the onslaught of backlash from the public which has arisen from the Defendants’ false reportage has adversely impacted Plaintiff’s operations.”

    “Plaintiff says that although it published rejoinders to the Defendants’ false reportage, the Defendants have failed and/or refused to retract and apologise to the plaintiff for the false information they have consistently peddled.”

    Furthermore, they are requesting a perpetual injunction against the publication of further defamatory material, a retraction and apology, and any other orders deemed appropriate by the High Court.

    In a December 2023 investigative report, The Fourth Estate implicated Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance.

    The report alleged that the GRA had granted SML a 10-year contract with an annual payment of $100 million, raising concerns about possible irregularities.

    SML refuted the claim, stating that it had a five-year contract instead. The GRA, in a statement on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procurement procedures were followed.

    On January 3, 2024, SML welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend its ongoing revenue assurance operations and undergo an audit of its contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance. President Akufo-Addo appointed KPMG, an audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to conduct the immediate audit.

    SML expressed confidence that the audit would provide a clear and accurate depiction of its operations. However, President Akufo-Addo extended the deadline for KPMG to complete its audit following its request.

    As a result, KPMG is now expected to submit its report on Friday, February 23.

    Below is the data said to have been provided by the GRA.

  • Dr. Amin Adam urges GRA to address revenue generation gaps at ports

    Dr. Amin Adam urges GRA to address revenue generation gaps at ports

    In the course of a recent meeting with the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam expressed apprehension regarding the persistently high levels of corruption perceptions at Ghana’s ports.

    Dr. Amin Adam highlighted ongoing revenue losses attributed to the activities of clearing agents, shipping companies, and certain customs officials, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues.

    Assuming office following President Akufo-Addo’s ministerial reshuffle on February 14, Dr. Amin Adam emphasized the crucial need to close existing loopholes to optimize revenue generation for national development.

    In his visit to the GRA on Monday, February 19, Dr. Amin Adam stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to improve transparency and efficiency in revenue collection processes.

    “It is also time to roll out and expand the E-VAT mechanism, despite whatever challenges exist. We saw the potential collections from the Pilot Phase. We cannot continue to prolong and delay the implementation, especially under the programme.

    “We must also work with renewed urgency towards reducing human contact in the revenue processes and introduce a faceless assessment system. This is a sure way to give taxpayers a great experience and boost revenue mobilisation.”

    “Commissioner-General, as you may be aware, the perception of corruption in the ports of trade and entry remains very high. I have seen reports that tend to confirm some of these perceptions.

    “And I know you all have received similar reports. We continue to lose revenue through the actions and inactions of clearing agents, shipping companies, and some of our own customs officials.”

    Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam further emphasized that Ghana faces significant challenges if it does not fulfill certain tax obligations necessary to meet targets set by the International Monetary Fund.

    He urged the Ghana Revenue Authority to take proactive measures to address any deficiencies in revenue generation processes.

    “The Barekese and Owabi WTPs as well as the Achiase Booster Station have been experiencing power outages in the last few weeks. This has made it difficult to produce and transmit potable water to our cherished customers and the public,” said a statement from the company.

    The water company says its management has notified the ECG of the challenges, as it “counts on ECG to improve power supply to all GWL installations in the region to enable GWL to serve the metropolis with the constant flow of water. Management regrets the inconvenience the challenge may have caused”.

  • Ghana must meet its tax obligations to prevent a catastrophe – Mohammed Amin Adam

    Ghana must meet its tax obligations to prevent a catastrophe – Mohammed Amin Adam

    Finance Minister-designate, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has cautioned that Ghana could face serious challenges if it does not meet certain tax obligations required to meet targets set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    He has urged the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to proactively address any gaps to ensure revenue generation.

    During an engagement with the Commissioners of the Authority, Dr. Amin Adam emphasized that revenue mobilization is a critical priority for the government.

    Despite this, he commended the GRA for surpassing the revenue target for 2023.

    “Commissioner-General, this institution continues to perform admirably well. Last year, you managed to exceed the revenue target. Although the public seems to question the framework for target setting, I congratulate you on this achievement.”

    “However, this achievement also reveals the depth of potential to be optimised. This view is also shared by the wider public. Achieving and exceeding the targets is also critical to the success of the IMF-Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Programme. We cannot afford to miss our commitments programme”, he stressed.

    Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam emphasized the crucial role of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in supporting Ghana’s IMF program for 2024.

    “Commissioner-General, I take this opportunity to reiterate to you and your team the three key commitments you made under the programme for 2024: cleaning of the GRA taxpayer register by end-June 2024, complete data migration from all existing portals to the ITAS, operationalize the major modules (registration, returns filing and payments) in the system (and processes needed to be completed prior to that) by end December 2024”, he added.

    The finance minister also announced plans to collaborate with the GRA through a structured framework to surpass the GH¢145 billion revenue target set in the 2024 Budget.

  • Review tax system for construction firms contracted by govt – Contractors to GRA

    Review tax system for construction firms contracted by govt – Contractors to GRA

    The Volta Regional branch of the Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors of Ghana (ABCECG) has submitted a petition to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has urged a reconsideration of the taxing system imposed on construction firms engaged in government-contracted public projects.

    During a meeting with the Volta Region GRA leadership in Ho, the ABCECG presented their concerns.

    The Volta Regional Chairman of ABCECG, Dr. Emmanuel Afetorgbor, highlighted issues such as GRA’s failure to credit members despite recorded credits and the imposition of debits based on “desktop assessments.”

    Dr. Afetorgbor raised objections to substantial penal charges for delayed filing of returns and urged the GRA to review this decision.

    He also sought clarity on the criteria used for assessing tax obligations and questioned why construction firms faced penalties when government entities failed to remit withheld taxes deducted at the payment source.

    “Contractors suffer non/delay payment for works done for the government for several years and when these payments are made, the Government doesn’t pay interest on the said amount. It is very unfair for the government to expect tax penalties and interests when clearly the contractor is not to blame”, he said.

    He emphasized the unfairness of imposing tax penalties on contractors who experience delays in government payments for completed projects, especially when the government does not pay interest on overdue amounts.

    Dr. Afetorgbor criticized situations where GRA officials humiliate association members for delayed tax payments, asserting that contractors should not be penalized when government agencies fail to remit withheld tax amounts.

    “Taxes are withheld at the time of payment and when agencies fail to pay the withheld amounts to GRA, the expectation is for the contractor to further use his resources to chase these payments. GRA doesn’t penalize these establishments for not paying withheld tax amounts to the credit of the contractors.”

    “GRA doesn’t seem to want to listen and tailor tax collection to recent happenings in the country.
    As one of the major tax-paying sectors of the economy, GRA needs to constantly engage and
    educate contractors on changes in their tax collections tactics and also seek input towards effectiveness”, he said.

    Calling for immediate redress, Dr. Afetorgbor emphasized the need for collaboration between the GRA and contractors to ensure business sustainability.

    He urged the GRA to listen to the concerns of the tax-paying construction sector, engage in continuous communication, and adapt tax collection strategies to the evolving economic landscape.