Ministry of Tourism and GRA join forces to support creative industry with new tax framework
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, led by Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has taken a significant step to support Ghana's culture and creative arts sector by engaging with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to discuss taxation and policy issues affecting creatives.
This meeting brought together key industry players and tax administrators to explore ways to restructure taxation, supporting growth in the sector rather than hindering it.
They're introducing a new digital tool called the Ntoboa app, designed to help creatives manage their tax obligations more efficiently.
“What we lack is why we are here,” she stated. “We have a teeming number of talented young people, but without proper structures and understanding, the sector cannot thrive. We are here to find a human-centered approach to taxation.”
The Minister praised President John Mahama for recognizing the creative sector’s value by realigning the ministry in 2013 to include Creative Arts formally, stating that the sector’s contribution to tourism and national revenue must be acknowledged and nurtured.
Commissioner-General of the GRA, Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, affirmed the Authority’s commitment to supporting the sector, noting, “If we shut down this sector, there would be a crisis in this country.” He highlighted that taxes fund national development and stressed the importance of finding a mutually beneficial framework for compliance that considers the peculiar challenges of creatives.
A key highlight of the meeting was the introduction of Ntoboa app, aimed at helping creatives better manage their tax obligations and contributions. The platform is expected to improve transparency and simplify the tax process for industry players.
The Minister also announced initiatives to use theatre and performing arts to educate creatives on tax issues. “We’ll work with National Theatre players and theatre groups to raise awareness through community-based skits, flash performances, and market outreach,” she said.
The session ended with a mutual agreement to reconvene for a more detailed working session, where a roadmap and possible incentives for the sector will be discussed further.
This landmark meeting signals a new collaborative chapter between government agencies and the creative industry, aiming to ensure long-term sustainability, equity, and economic contribution.
