The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has introduced a shortcode-based payment platform to facilitate the acquisition of business operating permits and the payment of property rates.
By dialing 22233# for business permits and 22255# for property rates, business owners and residents can now complete transactions directly from their mobile devices, eliminating the need for physical visits to AMA offices.
This initiative is part of AMA’s broader strategy to modernize revenue collection, enhance data accuracy, and improve service delivery.
The platform supports various payments, including market and parking tolls, and commercial signage fees. Users can check their bills via SMS, a dedicated customer portal, or USSD, with payments accepted through mobile money, bank cards, or banks.
To ensure inclusivity, AMA has conducted training sessions for stakeholders, providing guidance and support for those requiring assistance. Revenue collectors are being reassigned to roles in enforcement and customer education, helping businesses adopt the system and ensuring compliance.
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The goal of the platform
The platform aims to eliminate middlemen, reducing opportunities for corruption and enhancing accountability through real-time payment tracking.
This development aligns with a broader trend across African cities leveraging technology to enhance public services. For instance, Ghana launched CitizenApp, a mobile platform consolidating various government services, including utility bill payments and local assembly fees, into a single, user-friendly application.
Additionally, Mastercard has expanded its operations in West Africa by opening its first office in Accra. This strategic move underscores Mastercard’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s growing digital economy by providing innovative financial products and services tailored to the market.
The establishment of a physical presence aims to deepen relationships with stakeholders and drive inclusive growth across the region.
While the shortcode system offers numerous benefits, its success depends on overcoming challenges such as digital literacy among business owners and the reliability of mobile network services. Ensuring users are adequately informed and addressing technical issues promptly will be essential to maintaining trust in the system.
The AMA’s introduction of shortcode-based payments marks a crucial milestone in improving the ease of doing business in Accra, positioning the city as a leader in digital transformation within the region.
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