Transport and Logistics imperative for growth-Dr Anane

Accra, April 3, GNA- The Minister of Roads and Transport, Dr. Richard Anane on Monday observed that the development of a dedicated and competent human resource personnel in the field of transportation and logistics was critical and imperative for economic development. "This is so because the growth and development of any economy is largely dependent on the efficient movement of people, goods and services," he added.

Addressing the Graduation ceremony of the first batch of participants in an International Course in Logistics and Transport in Accra, Dr Anane said the transport industry did not merely serve individual interests, but facilitated the overall economic growth of the nation adding, " indeed in other jurisdictions, transport is used as a barometer to measure a country's economic growth and development". He noted that the logistics and transport investments are capital intensive and that, "investments made in the industry should be effectively and efficiently managed by equally trained and competent professionals".

" This has become more urgent in a climate of rapidly changing technological advancement and competing demands on the scarce resources available".

The Minister pointed out: " There is the need for a crop of professionals with vision, innovation creativity to appreciate and address the ever increasing challenges and complexities in the logistics and transport industry.

Dr Anane however, described as critical the provision of training in transport and logistics to cover the modes of transport in order to realize the full benefit of the investment.

He therefore, praised Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) for introducing Diploma and Advanced Diploma in logistics and transport management.

Dr. Anane said a National Transport Policy which would inform, regulate and gave strategic direction and focus to the transport needs of the nation had long been felt, saying the absence of this important framework has been a major constraining factor in the development of our transport sector.

" Until recently, investment in our air, sea, rail and road transport services have lagged behind the vast investment in roads infrastructure". He added.

" This situation will soon change, a national policy is currently under preparation which shows government determination to put in place a credible and workable structures and framework to guide and regulate our policy and decisions", he stated.

He told the graduands that professional certificates did not only provide opportunities but discipline, hardwork, honesty and integrity would be the parameters for measuring success. The President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Mr H C K Kuzagbe said it was unfortunate that for far too long, a structured education in logistics and transports planning, operations and management in all its facets had not been given any attention.

He said it was however, acknowledged truth that no economy anywhere could run without the efficient movement of goods and services adding, "if we accepts this truism, the question is by what means will the nation get skilled and trained manpower to administer logistics and transport".

Mr Kuzabge therefore, called on government to make transport and logistics integral part of the economy and support in the training and provision of skilled human resource to manage the field. In all, 83 participants were awarded international certificates and advanced diploma in transport and logistics course. 03 April 06