Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has charged newly commissioned officer cadets of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to remain disciplined, dedicated and patriotic as they step into their critical roles as revenue mobilisers and border security enforcers.
Addressing the graduating class during a colourful passing out parade at the Customs Academy at Kpetoe in the Volta Region on Friday, the Vice in a speech delivered on her behalf by her Chief of Staff, hon. Akex Segbefia expressed pride in the cadets’ endurance and commitment through nine months of rigorous customs and paramilitary training.
“Today marks not just the end of your training, but the beginning of a lifetime of service and sacrifice to our beloved nation,” she remarked. “Your well-coordinated drill and swift responses during the parade reflect the high standards of discipline that have been instilled in you.”
Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the crucial role the GRA plays in Ghana’s economic transformation agenda, particularly at a time when global financial uncertainty and the closure of international funding avenues are affecting many African economies including Ghana’s.
“In this context, we must strengthen domestic revenue generation, reform our tax system, and explore innovative financing models,” she said. “Our prosperity must be built primarily through our own efforts. Self-reliance is no longer an ambition but a necessity.”
She outlined several policy measures the government is implementing to enhance revenue mobilisation. Including, Reviewing the tax exemption regime to ensure transparency and stimulate economic growth, Rationalising port fees to boost trade competitiveness, Restructuring the GRA to improve tax administration and compliance among others.
The vice president noted every cedi collected by Customs could translate into tangible benefits such as schools, hospitals and infrastructure making their role pivotal to national development.
“As guardians of our borders and facilitators of legitimate trade, your vigilance will help curb smuggling and protect local businesses,” the Vice President added. “Whether Ghana becomes a preferred trade destination depends largely on your conduct and efficiency.”
She reiterated government’s commitment to equipping the GRA with the tools and resources needed to maximize revenue collection, ensuring that the Authority remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s economic revival.
She commended the leadership and instructors at the Academy for their dedication in preparing the cadets to uphold the mandate of the Customs Division, revenue mobilisation, trade facilitation and public safety.
The event was attended by senior officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority, government representatives, traditional leaders and families of the graduating cadets.
Story by: Nancy Obimpeh
