Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has called on tax officials to adopt a more aggressive and proactive approach to revenue mobilisation as the government intensifies efforts to strengthen domestic tax collection.
Speaking during an engagement with staff of the Legon Tax Service Centre, Dr Forson emphasised that revenue generation must move beyond passive systems that rely on taxpayers voluntarily reporting to offices. He stressed that the changing economic environment demands a more deliberate and hands-on approach to compliance enforcement.
“Revenue must not depend on waiting for taxpayers to walk into our offices,” the Finance Minister said, urging officers to take the initiative by engaging taxpayers directly and ensuring that all obligations to the state are met. “We must go out, engage, enforce compliance, and collect what is due to the state,” he added.
Dr Forson challenged tax officials to take full ownership of their revenue targets and to be intentional about widening the tax net, particularly by identifying untapped sectors and individuals operating outside the formal system. According to him, effective domestic revenue mobilisation remains central to reducing the country’s reliance on borrowing and external support.
He underscored the importance of taxes in financing national development, noting that government’s ability to provide quality public services depends largely on how efficiently revenue is collected. “Ghana needs the revenue, and the work you do is critical to funding public services and driving national development,” he stated.
The Finance Minister expressed confidence that stronger performance could be achieved if officials remained focused and disciplined in their duties. He maintained that a results-oriented approach, combined with commitment and professionalism, would significantly improve revenue outcomes.
“With focus, discipline, and commitment, we can mobilise the resources required to support growth, deliver essential services, and secure a stronger future for our country,” Dr Forson said.
His remarks come at a time when government is pursuing broader fiscal reforms aimed at stabilising the economy, improving public finances, and creating sustainable funding for development priorities.
Author: Edem Latsu Nukafu
Edem Latsu Nukafu, a passionate communications professional dedicated to public relations, journalism, media strategy, and content development. He holds both a Diploma and Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies (Public Relations) from the University of Media, Arts and Communication – UniMAC-IJ. A member of Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
