Transport Minister calls for efficient, competitive ports to boost regional trade

Mr Nikpe said achieving the ambition required sustained collaboration among the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), the government, private-sector operators, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders across the transport and logistics value chain.

He made the call in a keynote address at the GPHA’s 40th Anniversary Dinner and Industry Awards, where he highlighted six priorities for building a more efficient, competitive, and sustainable port system.

The priorities include improving cargo handling and evacuation, reducing avoidable delays, strengthening coordination among port operators and regulatory agencies, and making port services faster, more reliable and cost-effective.

The Minister said port competitiveness depended not only on infrastructure but also on the quality and efficiency of services delivered to businesses and customers.

He also called for the adoption of integrated digital systems, automation, and data-driven operations to improve transparency, simplify procedures, and enhance customer experience.

On transport connectivity, he said stronger links among ports, roads, railways, inland terminals and logistics centres were essential to easing congestion, facilitating cargo movement, and improving access to regional markets.

Mr Nikpe urged stakeholders to prioritise environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, workplace safety and operational resilience as the country modernised its port infrastructure and services.

He said workforce development was equally important, calling for investment in professional training, digital skills, technical expertise and leadership development to prepare workers for the changing demands of the maritime and logistics industry.

On regional trade, the Minister said Ghana had an opportunity to strengthen its position as a preferred gateway for landlocked neighbouring countries and a leading logistics hub for West Africa.

He said realising that potential required reliable services, competitive costs, efficient transit procedures and deeper collaboration with regional partners.

The Minister said the six priorities reinforced the anniversary theme of service, partnership and progress, stressing that no single institution could achieve the objectives independently.

He encouraged stakeholders to sustain cooperation to improve the competitiveness and efficiency of Ghana’s transport sector.

The event also recognised individuals and organisations whose dedication, professionalism and contributions had advanced GPHA and the country’s maritime industry.

The Minister congratulated the award recipients and urged stakeholders to uphold high standards of service, integrity, and innovation.

As GPHA looked towards its next 40 years, he called for continued investment in digital transformation, transport connectivity and workforce development to expand Ghana’s contribution to regional trade.

He said the ambition to build West Africa’s premier trade and logistics hub must be reflected in service quality, strong partnerships and tangible results for businesses, communities and the country.