The Minister for Transport, Hon. Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, has lauded the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) for its remarkable achievements in the shipping and logistics sector over the past five decades.
Speaking at the launch of the Authority’s 50th-anniversary celebrations at the Marriott Hotel in Accra on November 29, 2024, the Minister highlighted its pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s trade landscape and fostering economic growth.
“The Ghana Shippers’ Authority has excelled in its mandate, from ensuring competitive freight rates for our cocoa exports to providing vital port infrastructure and facilitating cross-border trade.
These achievements have made it a cornerstone of Ghana’s economic development,” Hon. Asiamah stated.
He pointed to the Authority’s accomplishments in securing competitive freight rates for cocoa through annual negotiations, establishing warehouses at the Tema Port, and advancing the Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal (BILT) in the Ashanti Region as key milestones. The construction of a freight park at Elubo and the provision of reliable maritime trade statistics were also highlighted as critical contributions to Ghana’s logistics ecosystem.
Hon. Asiamah commended the passage of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act 2024 (Act 1122), which strengthens the Authority’s ability to regulate the shipping industry and address long-standing challenges such as illegitimate charges by service providers.
“This new legal framework positions the Ghana Shippers’ Authority to not only address existing challenges but also align with the dynamic changes in the global shipping industry. However, the real task lies in its effective implementation,” he remarked.
The Minister urged the Authority to continue its tradition of innovation and excellence by embracing new technologies, promoting green shipping practices, and strengthening international partnerships. He emphasized the need for the Authority to remain at the forefront of Ghana’s maritime growth while maintaining its commitment to the interests of shippers.
Hon. Asiamah paid tribute to past leaders and pioneers of the GSA, acknowledging their role in laying the foundation for the Authority’s successes. He also commended the leadership of the current Chief Executive, Mr. Kwesi Baffour Sarpong, and the staff for their dedication and resilience.
“The Ghana Shippers’ Authority has demonstrated resilience and excellence over 50 years. This golden jubilee is not just a celebration of the past but an opportunity to set new benchmarks for the future,” he concluded.
The celebration, themed “50 Years of Excellence in Shipping and Logistics: Dedication, Innovation, and Service in the Shipping Industry,” reflects the Authority’s legacy and its vision to remain a transformative force in Ghana’s maritime and logistics sectors.
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com | Ebenezer Madugu
