'We must continuously improve cargo handling, coordination among port operators' – Transport Minister

The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has urged Ghana’s ports and transport operators to raise service standards, embrace digitalisation and improve connectivity to consolidate the country’s position as a major trade and logistics hub in West Africa.

He said Ghana’s ability to compete effectively as a regional gateway would depend on how efficiently cargo was handled, evacuated and transported from the ports to destinations across the country and neighbouring states.

Mr Nikpe made the call on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the 40th anniversary dinner and awards night of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.

He said the country must address avoidable delays and strengthen collaboration among port operators, regulatory agencies, transport providers and customers to improve the overall efficiency of the sector.

“We must continuously improve cargo handling, reduce avoidable delays, accelerate cargo evacuation and strengthen coordination among port operators, regulatory agencies, transport providers and customers to be on time,” he said.

According to the Minister, the quality of service provided to customers would ultimately determine Ghana’s competitiveness in the transport sector.

“Our competitiveness in our transport sector depends on our customers, and they will be the ones to recommend us for good work,” he stressed.

Mr Nikpe identified digital transformation, multimodal transport connectivity, sustainability, workforce development and regional trade integration as key areas requiring sustained attention.

He said the integration of ports with roads, railways and other transport infrastructure was necessary to facilitate the movement of goods, improve access to markets and strengthen Ghana’s role as a gateway for landlocked countries in the sub-region.

He further stressed the need for reliable port services, competitive costs and efficient transit procedures to make Ghana an attractive logistics destination for businesses and regional trading partners.

“Ghana has an opportunity to strengthen its position as a leading logistics gateway for the West Africa subregion. This requires reliable service, competitive cost, efficient transit and procedures that deepen collaboration between our regional neighbours,” he emphasised.