Ashanti Regional Minister orders full disclosure of district fees

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, has directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in the region to submit their gazetted fees and levies to the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) for review.

The directive is aimed at ensuring that taxes and levies imposed by the assemblies, particularly on mining operations, conform to the provisions of the Local Government Act.

The move follows reports that some MMDAs have been collecting taxes and levies on equipment and tools used in illegal mining activities within the region.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Special Planning Committee and Technical Sub-Committees of the MMDAs in Kumasi on February 12, 3026, Amoakohene stressed that all fees, taxes and levies charged by the assemblies especially those related to mining operations must strictly adhere to laid-down guidelines governing land use and related activities under the Local Government Act.

He emphasised the need for MMDAs to comply fully with existing by-laws on fee-fixing until new directives are issued by the Presidency.

“Assemblies should strictly follow local government guidelines and statutory procedures when fixing fees and levies,” he said.

Awula Serwaa criticises Amansie Central Assembly over 'galamsey tax' claims

Dr Amoakohene further urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to ensure that individuals and companies engaged in mining, sand winning and quarrying obtain the necessary business certificates and permits from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

He cautioned the MMDCEs against collecting levies from enterprises that lack proper authorisation and pose potential environmental risks.

“We must ensure that revenue collection is done lawfully, fairly, and in line with approved processes to avoid abuse and protect legitimate operators,” he said.

The Regional Minister also encouraged members of the newly inaugurated town planning committees to work diligently towards the development of the Ashanti Region.

He advised them to carefully assess lands before issuing building permits and warned developers against acquiring land in flood-prone areas, noting that such structures could be demolished by authorities.

SO/VPO

#TrendingGH: Love or Pressure? Ghanaians speak on Valentine's Day celebration