In a powerful display of compassion and civic responsibility, Onua Foundation has fed 2,000 underprivileged children in honor of His Eminence, the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu.
But beyond the plates of food served, the event stirred a deeper national conversation on how Ghana can unlock greater private sector support for social causes — starting with tax reform.
Speaking at the event, held under the theme “Feeding with Dignity, Giving with Purpose”, the Head of Onua Foundation A. Issa Monnie, called on the Government of Ghana to urgently revise its tax policies to make corporate social responsibility (CSR) more attractive and accessible to businesses.
“Charity must not be seen as a private burden,” he said. “It is a public investment in national peace and human dignity. When companies are empowered to give, communities are empowered to rise.”
Existing Laws Not Enough
Currently, the Income Tax Act, 2015 (Act 896) allows deductions under Section 10(1)(f) and Section 13(2)(c) for donations to approved charitable organizations. But the Foundation argues that bureaucratic red tape and lack of public awareness have stifled the full implementation and impact of these provisions.
“Many companies who are willing to support meaningful causes find it difficult to navigate the current system. The government must simplify the process, actively promote these tax benefits, and recognize social investment as part of business growth,” Issa Monnie, Onua Foundation’s leader stated.
A National CSR Policy Urged
Beyond tax deductions, Onua Foundation proposed the creation of a National Corporate Social Responsibility Policy, which would encourage large corporations to commit a minimum percentage of their profits to impactful community programs in areas like education, health care, youth development, and food security.
Such a policy, they say, would not only institutionalize CSR but also promote transparency and accountability, ensuring that support reaches the most vulnerable.
Chief Imam’s Legacy Inspires Giving
The event was held to celebrate the enduring values of Ghana’s National Chief Imam, whose life has been a beacon of peace, interfaith harmony, and service to humanity. “We honor him not only with words, but with action — by feeding children who might otherwise go hungry,” the Head of the Foundation emphasized.
Children received nutritious meals, medical attention, and a day of joy, underscoring the Foundation’s commitment to holistic well-being.
Call for Partnerships
Abu Issa Monnie, recently adjudged CSR Executive of the year at the Ghana Executive Awards, also called for formal partnerships between government and reputable NGOs such as Onua Foundation, highlighting the need to scale up proven interventions through collaborative models. “We’re ready to do more — but we need policies that make it easier, not harder, to serve our people,” they noted.
Conclusion: Giving is Good Business
The event sent a clear message: when companies give, everyone wins. By aligning fiscal policy with social impact goals, Ghana can unlock millions of cedis in private sector support — not just for charity, but for nation-building.
As the Foundation concluded, “Let us feed the national conversation on compassion-driven policy. Let’s build a Ghana where no child sleeps hungry, and no good-hearted business feels punished for doing good.”
