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The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Techiman North in the Bono East Region, Hon. Adom Kwabena Johnson, hasrevealed plans to strengthen the Internally Generated Funds (IGF) of the district to support its development agenda.
Speaking in an interview with Rev. Nana Amakye on Classic FM’s Morning Show, the District Chief Executive (DCE) stated that he had met with revenue collectors in the district shortly after taking office. According to him, the main challenge faced by the revenue collectors is the general reluctance of residents to pay taxes to the district assembly.
“I have met with the revenue collectors in the district, and they shared their challenges with me. The main issue is that most people are reluctant to pay taxes to the assembly, which makes it very difficult for us to generate enough Internally Generated Funds (IGF),” he said.
Hon. Johnson explained that the current fee fixed at Techiman North is GH¢2.00, a figure that is significantly low compared to the cost of basic infrastructure needs such as street lighting.
He explained that limited tax compliance severely hinders the assembly’s ability to deliver essential services and undertake developmental projects.
“For example, the current fee fixed at Techiman North is GH¢2.00. However, the cost of a single streetlight ranges from GH¢800.00 to GH¢1,000.00. This means a large number of people need to pay their taxes just to purchase one streetlight — and streetlights are only one of the many needs of the district.
“If only a few people pay their taxes, it becomes extremely difficult for the assembly to undertake any meaningful development.” He stated.
The DCE further disclosed that the district is implementing capacity-building initiatives for its revenue collectors to enhance their efficiency. Additionally, public education campaigns will soon be rolled out to raise awareness about the importance of paying taxes.
“We also have plans to educate the people of Techiman North about the importance and benefits of paying taxes. We believe that by raising awareness, we can increase our Internally Generated Funds, which will, in turn, enable us to develop Techiman North.” He said.
Source: Ghanaweb.mobi
