NCCE, GRA EXTEND TAX COMPLIANCE EDUCATION TO THREE SDA CHURCHES IN ASSIN FOSO

The Assin Foso Office of the National Commission for Civic Education, in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority, has engaged members of SDA Central Church, SDA New Life Church, and True Faith Church in Assin Foso on tax compliance and responsible citizenship.

The outreach formed part of efforts to deepen public understanding of citizens’ tax obligations and the role of revenue mobilisation in national and local development. It also provided an opportunity for congregants to learn about lawful tax payment processes, filing of tax returns, and the importance of fulfilling civic duties.

Speaking during the engagement, Madam Adabiyatu Balali Iddrisu of the NCCE explained that Article 41(j) of the 1992 Constitution makes it a duty for every citizen to declare his or her income honestly to the appropriate and lawful agencies and to satisfy all tax obligations. She noted that taxes remain an important source of revenue for the provision of essential public services such as roads, schools, hospitals, police stations, and other development projects.

Madam Iddrisu emphasised that rights and duties are closely connected, explaining that citizens cannot demand improved public services without also contributing to the resources needed to provide them. She said access to quality health care, education, security, and other public goods depends largely on the willingness of citizens to honour their tax responsibilities.

She further encouraged traders, artisans, business owners, and other eligible taxpayers not to wait until enforcement actions are taken before complying with tax laws. According to her, voluntary compliance demonstrates responsible citizenship and helps strengthen development efforts within communities and the country at large.

As part of the education, Madam Iddrisu also explained the difference between property rates and income tax, noting that citizens must understand the various forms of taxes, rates, and levies they are required to pay.

Mr. Thomas Coffie of the Ghana Revenue Authority took the congregation through practical steps for paying taxes and filing tax returns using the GRA taxpayers’ portal. He explained that, for individual taxpayers, the Ghana Card PIN now serves as the Tax Identification Number.

Mr. Coffie also outlined some benefits of paying taxes and filing tax returns, including the ability to obtain a Tax Clearance Certificate when required for purposes such as some visa applications, formal transactions, professional requirements, or other official processes.

Members of the congregations expressed appreciation to the NCCE and the Ghana Revenue Authority for the education. They described the engagement as important and called for future collaboration involving the NCCE, GRA, and Municipal Assembly revenue collectors to further improve public understanding of tax obligations.