The government of Ghana has launched an app dubbed “CitizenApp” aimed at preventing financial mismanagement and corruption in both public and private institutions.
Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the Minister of Finance, said the app is a game-changer that will propel the nation to the next stage of the digital revolution and make accessing public services much easier and convenient as well as improving the quality of life for Ghanaians.
That, he said, would create job opportunities and spur economic growth in Ghana when fully implemented.
According to the developers of the App, the CitizenApp, also known as CADIS, is a digital platform designed to centralize transactions and interactions between government agencies and the citizens.
The app will consolidate public services into a single user-friendly application and enhance efficiency, accessibility and convenience for all citizens and residents across the country.
It provides access to personal information linked to the GhanaCard including the NHIS and SSNIT and streamlines access to job opportunities and facilitate job services. It also allows users to create profile and record education, skills, experiences and achievements.
Additionally, it matches job-seekers with potential employers and allows citizens to view and track SSNIT statements. Citizens call file their personal income taxes and payments of customs declarations and bills via the portal.
Individuals can also use it to top-up their ECG pre-paid and post-paid metres, pay water bills and fines from the Ghana Police Service.
The App, developed by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), in collaboration with other state and private agencies in Ghana, shows how the country is growing rapidly through technological innovations.
However, this will also change how the GRA operates and interacts with the public.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner General of the GRA, Ms Julie Essiam said the app was revolutionary, and will transform the processes of the Authority, enhancing transparency, and improving the experience of taxpayers across the country.
She said it will make the GRA responsive to the evolving needs of the people and build a system that cuts through bureaucracy, reduces waiting times, and puts the power of information and services directly in the hands of citizens.
The Commissioner said the App will enhance clearing of goods at ports, registering of documents with the Driver Vehicle License Authority (DVLA) and easy payments of all taxes.
Further, the Director General of the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), Mr Richard Okyere-Fosu said the CitizenApp allows agencies like the passport office to access the necessary data instantly to verify details and process the application in record time.
He said that the App allows employers to register their employees on pension schemes eliminating delays and inefficiencies. He further said the App also allows health authorities to access applicant’s identity and previous health coverage history, making it easier and more secure for citizens.
