Accusations and counter-accusations have swirled around Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd. (SML) in recent weeks, stirring public debate about the scope and nature of its revenue assurance contracts. Conflicting reports in the media have fueled concerns, prompting the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to address the growing unease. At the heart of the matter is the question of whether SML’s mandate has been expanded beyond its original scope. The GRA, responsible for overseeing revenue collection, has officially stepped in to clarify the situation concerning SML and its role in revenue assurance.

The GRA has firmly denied that SML’s mandate has been expanded, specifically refuting claims that the company’s oversight now extends to Ghana’s upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors. The Authority stated unequivocally that SML remains suspended from operating in these key sectors.

Understanding the Allegations

Reports in the Business and Financial Times and Graphic Online had suggested that SML was poised to expand its operations, a move that triggered immediate concern given the ongoing scrutiny of the company’s existing contracts. While it is unclear how SML allegedly justified this expansion, the perception of a broader mandate raised questions about transparency and the potential impact on other industry players.

The controversy stems from existing public debate around the value and transparency of the SML contract. Any perceived expansion of this mandate, especially into critical sectors like petroleum and solid minerals, naturally amplifies these concerns.

GRA’s Official Denial

In a press release issued on Wednesday, 14th May 2025, the GRA addressed the circulating reports directly. “The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has noted with concern reports… claiming that Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd. (SML) has unveiled an expansion of its revenue assurance oversight to cover Ghana’s upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors,” the statement began.

The GRA emphasized that the suspension imposed on SML in April 2024 remains firmly in place. “GRA wishes to clarify that the Authority’s suspension of SML’s services in the upstream petroleum and mineral sectors pending further review issued in April 2024, remains in force,” the statement continued. The Authority further clarified that it has not authorized any resumption of activities by SML in the affected sectors. “GRA has not instructed SML to activate nor resume operations under the 2023 Consolidation of Revenue Assurance Services Contract covering those sectors.” The suspension specifically targets the upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors, ensuring that SML cannot operate in these areas while the review is ongoing.

This timeline – the April 2024 suspension followed by the May 2025 denial of expanded operations – underscores the GRA’s consistent position on the matter.

Implications and Assurances

The GRA’s denial of SML’s mandate expansion carries significant implications for companies operating within the petroleum and solid minerals sectors. These companies had been navigating uncertainty, and this clarification provides a degree of reassurance. The impact may be felt in project timelines, revenue projections, and the overall reliance on revenue assurance services within these sectors.

The GRA also sought to reassure stakeholders of its commitment to ethical governance. “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 GRA stated. Further announcements regarding reviews or audits of SML’s contract are possible, with the GRA signaling its intention to maintain open communication.

The GRA’s firm stance sends a clear message to industry stakeholders and the public: the suspension of SML in the upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors remains in effect. The denial of any mandate expansion reflects the Authority’s dedication to safeguarding national revenue with integrity and transparency.