In a bid to reaffirm the government's commitment to maintaining Ghana's position as the preferred commercial shipping hub in the sub-region, the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, yesterday paid a working visit to the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA).
The purpose of his visit was to engage with GSA leadership, motivate staff, and gain firsthand insights into the Authority's operations during a pivotal moment of regulatory reform.
Accompanied by the Ministry's Chief Director, Mrs. Mabel Sagoe, and other senior officials, Hon. Nikpe was warmly welcomed by GSA's Chief Executive Officer, Professor Ransford Gyampo.
During the visit, Professor Gyampo gave an overview of the GSA’s history and stressed the importance of the new GSA Act 2024 (Act 1122) in regulating the country’s commercial shipping industry. He pointed out that the previous legislation, NRCD 254, which had governed the sector for fifty years, had become outdated and inadequate in addressing the evolving challenges of international trade.
“The main objective of the new legislation is to address the challenges impeding trade and to reduce the cost of doing business in Ghana. The law was designed with the aim of creating a commercial shipping environment that is fair, efficient, and competitive, while also fostering international trade and safeguarding industry stakeholders,” he explained.
Professor Gyampo also highlighted that the GSA’s mandate has been expanded to protect both shippers and shipping service providers, promoting a more efficient and internationally competitive trade environment. He further revealed that the GSA is in the process of drafting a Legislative Instrument (LI) to implement the provisions of Act 1122 (2024), ensuring that the law’s enforcement will protect all stakeholders while prioritizing the welfare of Ghanaians.
In response, Minister Nikpe reiterated his full support for the GSA in the successful implementation of the new legislation.
“The GSA Act 2024 (Act 1122) is a critical step in improving efficiency, promoting transparency, and reinforcing the regulatory framework of Ghana’s shipping and logistics sector. On behalf of the Ministry of Transport, I assure you that we will fully support you in the implementation of this Act. I will personally oversee the parliamentary processes to ensure their thorough execution,” he affirmed.
However, he urged the GSA to consider the concerns of all stakeholders, underscoring the importance of collaboration to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of the law. This, he emphasized, would foster a more conducive business environment for all parties involved.
