President Mahama has removed the E-Levy tax on mobile money and bank transfers. This is great news for market women, drivers, students, and all Ghanaians who send or receive money through their phones.
What is E-Levy?
E-Levy was a 1.5% tax on:
- Mobile money transfers (MTN, Vodafone, AirtelTigo)
- Bank transfers
- Paying for goods with mobile money
People complained because it made sending money more expensive, poor people suffered the most, some stopped using mobile money to avoid the tax
Why Did Mahama Remove It?
1. To help the poor – Market women, kayayei, and small businesses can now keep more of their money.
2. To make mobile money easier – More people will use it again without fear of deductions.
3. To fulfill his promise – Mahama said he would cancel it if he won, and he has done it.
What Happens Now?
✅ Sending GH₵100 means the receiver gets full GH₵100 – no tax!
✅ Mobile money agents will see more customers.
✅ Businesses can trade without losing money to charges.
But What About Government Money?
The government used E-Levy to get GH₵7 billion every year. Now, they say they will:
✔️ Stop corrupt officials from stealing money
✔️ Tax big cars and luxury items more
✔️ Use oil money wisely
A short survey made shows that the people are proud. The results are as follows from Accra, Kumasi and Tamale;
- Market Trader (Accra): “This is sweet! No more cuts when my children send me money.”
- Taxi Driver (Kumasi): “Now I can pay for fuel with mobile money freely.”
- Mobile Money Agent (Tamale): “Business will boom again!”
This is a big win for ordinary Ghanaians. But the government must find another way to replace the lost money without making life hard for the poor.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0