Ghanaian restaurant ‘Accra girls’ shut down by Massachusetts tax authorities

Communication Minister Sam Nartey George has detailed the government’s strategy for lowering mobile data prices, referencing past unsuccessful efforts due to challenges in policy implementation. In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, he pointed out that although some reports indicate Ghana’s data prices are relatively low compared to other African nations, many Ghanaians find these costs burdensome when considered against their income.

The typical price for 1GB of mobile data (around GHS17 or $1.37) is almost equal to the daily minimum wage (GHS19.97 or $1.61), which makes reliable internet access a challenge for numerous individuals.

The Minister reassured Ghanaians that adjustments to mobile data prices are on the horizon, but he emphasized that the Ministry would not be swayed by public sentiment; rather, it would adhere to the plan established by the 23-member Inter-Agency Data Pricing Committee.

He mentioned that the committee, after two weeks of discussions, created a roadmap that he is now implementing.

Mr. George highlighted the importance of executing policies carefully, ensuring that alternative networks are strong before any pricing changes impact the major providers.

A restaurant situated on Grafton Street in Worcester, known for its Ghanaian cuisine, has been taken over by the state’s Department of Revenue (DOR) due to outstanding taxes, as indicated by two signs displayed on the windows of the establishment.

Accra Girls, located at 1280 Grafton St., was seized by the DOR for failing to pay taxes, according to the two bright orange signs.

Emmanuel Larbi and Manasseh Konabu, the co-owners of Accra Girls, did not provide an immediate response to inquiries for comment on Monday.

The Department of Revenue also did not respond right away to a request for information regarding the timing of the seizure on Monday.

Accra Girls originally opened its doors in 2017, as noted in the Worcester Business Journal’s profile on Larbi.

The restaurant’s Instagram page states that it provides “hospitality on a plate.”

Accra Girls specializes in Ghanaian dishes, including Jollof rice, boiled yam with spinach stew, and Banku — a starchy dish made from corn and cassava doughs.