The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the government intends to scrap the COVID-19 levy in its forthcoming budget.

This move, he explained, would mark the fulfilment of a key campaign promise to eliminate four contentious taxes introduced by the previous administration.

Speaking to a large gathering of Ghanaians living in Benin, Mr Ablakwa declared, “Only one more tax remains for the government to scrap in order to fulfil its promise of removing four taxes imposed by the previous administration.” His remarks were met with enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.

Mr Ablakwa highlighted that three of the four taxes—the betting tax, the Electronic Levy (E-Levy), and the emissions tax—had already been repealed.

This followed the president’s approval of the relevant bills on 2nd April, clearing the path for the complete removal of the taxes in question.

The minister took the opportunity to update the Ghanaian diaspora on political and economic developments back home, assuring them of the current administration’s commitment to transparency and reform.

He encouraged the community to remain hopeful, reaffirming the Mahama government’s determination to deliver on its promises.

In addition, Mr Ablakwa emphasised that the government was prioritising youth development.

He revealed that dedicated funds had been set aside to support young people, adding that their empowerment remained central to the administration’s broader economic and social agenda.