GRA denies claims of mandate expansion for SML in petroleum, minerals sectors

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a strong rebuttal to media reports suggesting that Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd. (SML) has expanded its operations to oversee revenue assurance in the upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors.

In a press release dated May 14, 2025, the GRA stated unequivocally that SML’s services in these sectors remain suspended pending a comprehensive review. This suspension, originally imposed in April 2024, is still in effect, the Authority stressed.

The statement comes in response to publications in various online platforms and newspapers, including the Business and Financial Times and Graphic Online, which reported that SML had resumed or expanded its mandate in the aforementioned sectors.

GRA clarified that no directive has been issued for SML to commence or resume operations under the 2023 Consolidation of Revenue Assurance Services Contract, which would have extended its scope to include upstream petroleum and mineral revenue monitoring.

“The Authority wishes to assure stakeholders in the aforementioned sectors and the general public of its unwavering commitment to protect the nation's revenue with integrity and transparency,” the release stated.

The GRA’s clarification aims to dispel any misconceptions surrounding SML’s operational status and to reaffirm its stance on ensuring accountability and public confidence in revenue administration.