Tano South Municipality is falling far short of its revenue targets. The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Emmanuel Kwame Frimpong, revealed this critical financial situation. This poor collection is directly impacting local development projects.
As of March 31, the assembly had only collected GHS 264,000. This is just 22% of the GHS 1.2 million goal for the first quarter. The shortfall means less money is available for essential services and infrastructure. The MCE warned that this financial strain is stalling important initiatives.
This situation reflects a wider challenge for many local government assemblies in Ghana. Efficient revenue mobilisation is vital for decentralised development. It allows districts to fund their own priorities without solely relying on national government transfers. Data from the Ministry of Finance often shows variations in IGF performance across different districts. Improving IGF collection is a key focus for effective local governance.
MCE Frimpong stated that the assembly is implementing new measures. "We have instituted stringent measures to ramp up collection," he announced. These include penalties for revenue collectors who miss their targets. The assembly will also train its staff in better collection methods.
Broader concerns also emerged during the meeting. The MCE highlighted unsafe practices involving modified tricycles. Operators are removing passenger carriers to transport logs. This has led to accidents and fatalities. He also expressed alarm at the rise of drug abuse among young people in Bechem. He urged security agencies and the health directorate to act. The aim is to halt the illicit drug trade and educate the public on its dangers.
The assembly plans to address these issues with enforcement and education. Revenue collectors must meet their daily and monthly targets. Residents and businesses must pay their taxes promptly. Security forces will arrest those modifying tricycles illegally. Health forums will raise awareness about drug abuse impact.