Transport Minister Assures Ghana Shippers Authority of Govts. Commitment to Retaining Shipping Lines
By Praisebell R. Larbi
Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that shipping lines remain operational at Ghana’s ports. He gave this assurance during his first official visit to the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) in Accra, where he familiarized himself with the agency’s operations, addressed their concerns, and outlined his vision.
During the visit, the minister acknowledged concerns raised by some shipping companies regarding the implementation of Act 1122 of 2024. The legislation, which designates the GSA as both a regulator and an asset manager, has been criticized for introducing bureaucratic hurdles that increase the cost of doing business at the ports.
Nikpe assured the authority that President John Mahama remains committed to lowering operational costs at Ghana’s ports, in line with his campaign pledge to revise existing port-related regulations. During his first official visit to the port, he emphasized that addressing these regulatory challenges could prevent shipping lines from relocating to other regional ports.
“The threat of shipping lines relocating is real. We must act swiftly to create an environment that encourages them to stay. My presence here today is to listen to your concerns and assure you of our commitment to working together to protect the interests of shippers and shipowners,” he stated.
With over 80% of global trade conducted via sea transport, the minister stressed the need for Ghana to establish a business-friendly environment to attract and retain international trade partners. He pledged the ministry’s full support for the revised Act 1122 of 2024, which aims to strengthen the GSA’s regulatory role while addressing bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Nikpe also reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing the cost of doing business at the ports by reviewing taxes, duties, and levies to enhance Ghana’s competitiveness as a shipping hub. He called for stronger collaboration between the GSA and the Transport Ministry to maintain the country’s appeal as a key logistics gateway in the sub-region. Additionally, the minister highlighted the importance of addressing inefficiencies and aligning port operations with the government’s 24-hour economy agenda. He urged GSA management and staff to support the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in driving reforms that would position Ghana’s shipping industry as a leading trade hub in West Africa.
