The Ghana Revenue Authority has dispelled rumors in Ghanaian media claiming Strategic Mobilization Ghana Ltd. (SML) has unveiled an expansion of its revenue assurance oversight to cover Ghana’s upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors.
The Revenue Authority further clarified that the suspension of SML’s services in the upstream petroleum and minerals sectors issued in April 2024, remains in force.
Background
Strategic Mobilization Ghana Ltd (SML) is a Ghanaian company that has been involved in revenue assurance services within Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector. Recently, there have been discussions and claims regarding an “expanded mandate” for SML, which has led to public scrutiny and demands for clarification
SML was initially contracted by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to provide revenue assurance services in the petroleum sector. Its primary role was to monitor and validate volumes of petroleum products to prevent underreporting and tax evasion. The company was also to ensure accurate revenue collection for the government
Reports in the media on 14th May 2025 suggested that SML’s role was expanded beyond the downstream petroleum sector to include:
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Upstream petroleum monitoring (crude oil production and exports).
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Mining sector revenue assurance (gold and other minerals).
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Other tax audit and monitoring services.
This latest claim, the Revenue Authority has debunked.
