Transport Minister calls for efficient, digitalised ports to strengthen Ghana’s trade hub ambitions

The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has called for improved port efficiency, digitalisation and stronger transport connectivity to position Ghana as a leading trade and logistics gateway in West Africa.

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

Mr Nikpe made the call in a keynote address at the GPHA’s 40th Anniversary Dinner and Industry Awards, where he outlined six priority areas for building a more efficient, competitive and sustainable port system.

He identified the priorities as port efficiency and service excellence, digitalisation and innovation, multimodal connectivity, sustainability and safety, workforce development, and regional trade and integration.

On port efficiency, the Minister called for improvements in cargo handling and evacuation, the reduction of avoidable delays and stronger coordination among port operators and regulatory agencies.

He said port services must become faster, more reliable and cost-effective, stressing that competitiveness depended not only on infrastructure but also on the quality and efficiency of services provided to businesses and customers.

Mr Nikpe also advocated the adoption of integrated digital systems, automation and data-driven operations to improve transparency, simplify procedures and enhance the customer experience.

He said stronger connections between ports, roads, railways, inland terminals and logistics centres were necessary to ease congestion, facilitate the movement of cargo and improve Ghana’s access to regional markets.

The Minister further urged stakeholders to prioritise environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, workplace safety and operational resilience as Ghana continues to modernise its port infrastructure and services.

He identified workforce development as another key priority, calling for investment in professional training, digital skills, technical expertise and leadership development to equip workers to meet the changing demands of the maritime and logistics industry.

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

He said this would require reliable services, competitive costs, efficient transit procedures and stronger cooperation with regional partners.

According to the Minister, the six priorities were consistent with the anniversary theme of service, partnership and progress, adding that their achievement would depend on collective action.

He therefore encouraged stakeholders to maintain strong collaboration to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of Ghana’s transport sector.

The anniversary event also recognised individuals and organisations whose dedication, professionalism and contributions had supported the growth of GPHA and Ghana’s maritime industry.

Mr Nikpe congratulated the award recipients and urged industry players to uphold high standards of service, integrity and innovation.

Looking ahead to GPHA’s next 40 years, he called for continued investment in digital transformation, transport connectivity and workforce development to enhance Ghana’s contribution to regional trade.

He said Ghana’s ambition to become West Africa’s premier trade and logistics hub must be demonstrated through quality services, strong partnerships and tangible results for businesses, communities and the country.