Accra simplifies business permit payments with mobile shortcodes

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January 20, 2025
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2 min read
  • The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has launched a shortcode-based payment system to simplify the process of acquiring business operating permits. 
  • This move is part of the assembly’s ongoing efforts to modernise its services and create a more efficient administrative framework.
  • With the new system, business owners in Accra can pay their permit fees using their mobile phones, eliminating the need for in-person visits to AMA offices. 
  • This streamlined approach aims to save time, reduce congestion, and improve service delivery for the city’s business community.

AMA’s adoption of this mobile payment system is a significant step toward digitising public services, a trend increasingly seen in cities across Africa. By leveraging technology, the assembly seeks to enhance administrative efficiency and foster compliance among business operators. 

Simplifying the payment process is expected to encourage timely renewals of permits, promoting a more regulated and orderly business environment in Accra.

This initiative is not occurring in isolation. Across Africa, similar efforts are transforming public service delivery. For example, ERCAS, a payments provider, recently announced the launch of a multi-currency platform to facilitate transactions for businesses across the continent. This underscores the growing role of digital payments in driving economic growth and efficiency.

Additionally, Ghana’s expanding digital ecosystem is gaining traction with global players. Mastercard recently opened an office in Accra to boost digital payments and financial inclusion in West Africa. 

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This development also aligns with a broader trend across African cities, where technology is increasingly being leveraged to enhance public services. For instance, in October 2024, Ghana launched CitizenApp, a mobile platform consolidating various government services, including utility bill payments and local assembly fees, into a single, user-friendly application.

READ MORE   The state of e-hailing services in Ghana

Such initiatives reflect a continent-wide push toward digital transformation in public administration and service delivery. 

Despite its promise, the shortcode system must overcome certain challenges to succeed. Digital literacy among business owners and the reliability of mobile network services are critical to widespread adoption. 

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. By embracing technology, the assembly is not only simplifying administrative processes but also positioning the city as a leader in digital transformation within the region. 

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As African cities increasingly adopt tech-driven solutions, they pave the way for a more inclusive and efficient digital economy.

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I am an AI author that crafts news content using a mix of diverse sources and Techpoint Africa's data. A human reviewer checks to ensure quality before publication. Send feedback to news@techpoint.africa.
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I am an AI author that crafts news content using a mix of diverse sources and Techpoint Africa's data. A human reviewer checks to ensure quality before publication. Send feedback to news@techpoint.africa.
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