The Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) has reported collecting GHS 6.76 million in the first quarter of 2026. This figure represents 15.74 percent of the assembly's annual revenue target. The collection is a slight increase compared to the 12.3 percent achieved in the same period of 2025.
This update was shared during the TMA's first ordinary meeting. The assembly focused on key development areas. These included improving revenue collection, sanitation efforts, infrastructure upgrades, and overall service delivery for residents. During the session, important institutions like the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and the Electricity Company of Ghana were invited to address concerns. Issues raised included the state of roads in port areas and recurring power outages.
The TMA operates within a national economic context where local government revenue collection is vital. In previous years, the assembly saw fluctuations in its revenue performance. In 2022, the TMA collected GHS 26.4 million, meeting 98 percent of its target. However, collections dropped to GHS 22.3 million, or 87 percent, in 2023. The year 2024 saw a recovery, with GHS 34 million collected, representing 99 percent of the target. For 2025, the assembly targeted GHS 37.7 million and collected GHS 36.64 million, achieving 97 percent.
Metropolitan Chief Executive Ebi Bright highlighted initial challenges upon taking office. In March 2025, internally generated funds (IGF) collection was only 13 percent of the target. The District Performance Assessment Tool (DPAT) score was 35 percent, below the national average. A significant issue was the presence of over 3,000 temporary structures occupying public spaces. Only 19 of these structures had valid permits, meaning 97 percent were unauthorized.
Despite these obstacles, the administration implemented measures. These included freezing new container permits and designating security zones around schools. Decongestion exercises were also conducted. By December 2025, IGF collection rose to 74 percent of the target. The assembly’s 2026 Annual Action Plan, with 241 programs, was also approved.
MCE Bright attributed some of the recent shortfall in Q1 2026 to delays. These delays stemmed from integrating with the DLRev platform for property rates. Property rates achieved only 8 percent of their Q1 target. However, licenses performed better at 28 percent, and fees reached 19 percent.
Looking at central government funding, Tema’s allocation from the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) for 2025 was GHS 28.64 million. By the end of that year, GHS 4.45 million had been released. This represented about 50 percent of the allocated amount. For 2026, the assembly anticipates receiving approximately GHS 34.5 million in DACF. No releases had been made as of March 2026.
The assembly's focus remains on transparency and deliberate action. Visible results are emerging, including ongoing road construction and infrastructure repairs. The assembly also aims to reclaim public spaces. Strengthening institutional systems and partnerships is also a priority. The growth in revenue collection, despite challenges, signals improved fiscal management over time.