The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has initiated discussions with the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) to introduce a new digitalization system in the coming days. This new system, which will be piloted in the Ashiedu Keteke Sub-Metropolitan District, aims to streamline processes, curb revenue leakages, and improve efficiency in financial transactions within the metropolitan area.
Under this new digitalized system, clients will receive an SMS from the AMA via a registered business phone number, containing a link to access bills and complete payment through banks, mobile money, or by dialing *222*33# across all networks, or scanning a QR code.
Following the meeting with GUTA, the Mayor of Accra stressed the need to transition to a digital revenue collection system in response to growing calls for greater accountability and technological advancement in public service delivery. The goal is not only to optimize revenue generation but also to eradicate revenue leakages by leveraging digital platforms.
Madam Elizabeth Sackey, the Mayor of Accra, highlighted the importance of engaging stakeholders like GUTA in the implementation process, emphasizing the need for collaboration to ensure the successful adoption of the new digital system.
She noted that the new system would bring transformative changes in revenue collection, enabling real-time tracking of transactions, reducing administrative bottlenecks, and enhancing the overall efficiency of revenue management processes. She also assured that there would be no changes in the amount to be paid for every business category, and accredited AMA officers would be available to assist clients in making payments.
However, the Director for Welfare for GUTA (National), Mr. Benjamin Yeboah, expressed the association’s support for digitalization while raising concerns related to wrong billing, the user-friendliness of the digital payment platform, and security and integrity of financial transactions in the new system. He stressed the importance of an accessible complaint desk and requested a grace period to educate its members about the new development and resolve any emerging issues.
The initiative for digitalization comes as a step forward in the quest for modernization and efficiency in revenue collection and management. By leveraging technology, the AMA seeks to create a transparent and streamlined system that benefits both the authorities and the business community. With ongoing discussions and collaboration between the AMA and GUTA, it is anticipated that the new digital revenue collection system will bring about significant improvements in financial transactions within the metropolitan area.
