Mr. Benaiah Nii Addo, the Executive Director of Green Tax Youth Africa, has passionately addressed the pressing financial challenges facing Africa, with a particular focus on Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports
He highlighted a startling report from Tax Justice Network, which revealed that the continent has suffered a staggering $492 billion loss due to corporate tax evasion. This alarming figure serves as a clarion call for immediate action.
Mr. Nii Addo painted a vivid picture of the obstacles confronting Africa—rife with illicit financial flows, weak governance, and a troubling lack of transparency. To combat these issues, he advocated for a comprehensive development strategy aimed at reforming public financial management, increasing revenue mobilization, and enhancing transparency and accountability across the board.
At the heart of his message was the critical role of the media. He underscored how journalists serve as watchdogs, exposing corruption and shedding light on the dark corners of financial malpractice. He believes by supporting media personnel in their quest for truth, Ghana can foster a more accountable atmosphere. He further pointed out the need for a thorough review of the incentives and exemptions granted to corporations, ensuring they do not negatively impact the economy.
Mr. Nii Addo made it clear that effective public financial management is not merely a government responsibility; the international community, especially organizations like the UN, must step in to combat illicit financial flows and promote sustainable development across the continent. Their involvement is vital and deserves commendation.
The call for collective effort resonated throughout his speech. Mr. Nii Addo stressed that alleviating Africa’s financial woes requires collaboration among governments, international organizations, civil society, and the media. Together, they can champion transparency and accountability, ensuring that the continent’s resources ultimately benefit its citizens.
Further emphasizing the media’s critical role, Mr. Nii Addo pointed out that journalists must translate complex financial data into accessible language for the public. This empowerment can enable citizens to grasp the economic implications of illicit financial flows and recognize the substantial losses incurred. With this knowledge, citizens would be better equipped to hold their governments accountable and advocate for meaningful change.
Collaboration is key, he noted. Civil society organizations and the media should work hand-in-hand, amplifying each other’s voices to achieve greater accountability from those in power. The Media Foundation for West Africa’s capacity building for Journalist on Illicit Financial Flows and Taxation serves as a noteworthy example of such cooperative efforts, illustrating the potential for transformative change.
However, Mr. Nii Addo’s compelling message highlighted that creating a transparent and accountable financial system in Africa is not just an ideal; it is an achievable reality—a goal that requires the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders committed to meaningful development.
The capacity building workshop for journalists on Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) in Ghana was successfully organized by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA). This valuable initiative was made possible through the generous funding support of OXFAM and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
