Accra: The Ministry of Transport has developed a draft Legislative Instrument (L.I.) to operationalise the Ghana Shippers Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122). Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister for Transport, revealed this in a statement read on his behalf at a Ghana maritime transport stakeholder forum organized by the Ghana Chamber of Shipping, under the auspices of the Ministry of Transport. The forum, themed 'Streamlining Ghana's Maritime Transport and Logistics Sector for Transparency, Efficiency, and Competitiveness,' focused on addressing concerns about the newly passed Act.
According to Ghana News Agency, the draft Legislative Instrument aims to address industry concerns regarding the Ghana Shippers Authority Act, 2024. Mr. Nikpe emphasized that extensive consultations are underway to ensure that industry concerns are fully addressed before the implementation of the regulations. The Ministry's strategy includes promoting transparency and accountability through policy and regulatory reforms aimed at reducing the cost of doing business.
Parliament passed the Ghana Shippers' Authority Bill, 2024, into law in July 2024, amending the old law and focusing on regulating commercial activities of shippers. The legislation primarily addresses issues of unfair and excessive port charges and land borders. Efforts are underway to standardize procedures at the ports, and initiatives such as 24-hour port operations are being rolled out to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Mr. Nikpe highlighted the Ministry's commitment to eliminating duplication among agencies in clearance processes. Collaborations with the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority are ongoing to review port levies and charges, with the aim of making Ghana's ports fair, affordable, and globally competitive. Additionally, the country is committed to the International Maritime Organization's Green Voyage 2050 Programme, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in international shipping by 2050.
Through the Ghana Maritime Authority, Ghana is actively participating in the IMO's 2023 Greenhouse Gas Strategy and is receiving technical support to transition towards sustainable maritime practices. Mr. Nikpe noted the challenges and opportunities presented by this transition, including the potential for cleaner fuels, green financing, and inclusive national development.
The government views the private sector as a crucial partner in national development, and the ministry promises continued support for forums and initiatives led by industry players like the Ghana Chamber of Shipping. Mr. Stanley K. Ahulu, the President of the Ghana Chamber of Shipping, described the chamber as a key industry think tank established in 2018. It represents stakeholders in the maritime and shipping sector, advocating for efficient port operations and fostering collaboration among members to promote sustainable growth in Ghana's maritime trade.
