Accra: Mrs. Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Deputy Minister of Transport, has pledged her ministry's support to the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) to enhance its operations effectively. She emphasized the significant role the sector plays in promoting maritime trade, which is crucial for the country's developmental goals.
According to Ghana News Agency, the assurance was made during a familiarization tour of the GMA headquarters in Accra, where the Minister led a team to engage with the staff. The tour also included a visit to the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) head office, providing an opportunity to discuss strategies for sector improvement.
Mrs. Affo-Toffey highlighted that the government, under President Mahama, had resolved visa issues with the United States to facilitate smoother international business for the country's seafarers. She noted ongoing efforts to address similar challenges with Brazil and called for collaboration to eliminate obstacles within the maritime sector.
During the visit, Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, Acting Director-General of GMA, outlined the Authority's efforts, such as investigating maritime incidents, advising the government on maritime issues, and regulating shipping activities and safety on inland waterways. He emphasized the need for investment in surveillance equipment and expedited legislative processes to meet international standards.
Dr. Ali also revealed plans to expand operations along coastal areas, including Jomoro, Ahanta, Apam, and the Eastern Region in Ada, enhancing the Authority's reach and effectiveness.
At the GSA, Professor Randsford Gyampo, the Chief Executive, expressed appreciation for the Minister's support and highlighted the Authority's role in safeguarding and advancing the shipping industry since its establishment in 1974. He praised the government's 24-hour economy policy and stressed the need for efficient logistics.
Prof. Gyampo updated the Deputy Minister on the Boankra Inland Port project, which is 80 percent complete, urging the government to ensure its completion. The project aims to connect Tema and Takoradi ports with landlocked countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. He raised concerns over a $50 million debt threatening the project's progress but remained hopeful of government intervention.
In response, Mrs. Affo-Toffey assured the GSA of her commitment to addressing their challenges with the appropriate authorities. She reiterated the sector's importance in job creation and economic stimulation. The Deputy Minister emphasized the government's intention to review taxes and other costs to make Ghana's ports more competitive in the region, stating, "We are a listening government and will work to develop policies to make our port the best across the sub-region."
