Madam Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Deputy Minister for Transport, has paid a working visit to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), commending the company for the successful roll-out of 24-hour port operations.
The visit formed part of her engagement with agencies under the Ministry of Transport.
Madam Affo-Toffey said the 24-hour port operations represented a significant step towards enhancing service delivery and boosting efficiency at Ghana’s seaports.
She said to ensure smooth port operations; it was important that the GPHA collaborated with key stakeholders in the maritime value chain.
She stated that the visit was to give her first-hand insight into the operations of the GPHA and interact with management on issues affecting the efficiency and competitiveness of Ghana’s ports.
Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, the Director General of GPHA, welcomed the deputy minister and her entourage, commending the Ministry of Transport for the continuous support to the port authority under the sector minister, Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe.
He gave the assurance that the goal was to streamline processes, reduce turnaround times and minimise double handling.
Brigadier General Tanye-Kulono: by optimising operations, GPHA aims to make Ghana’s ports more competitive.
He gave the assurance that his outfit was also engaging with stakeholders, including the media, to ensure proper understanding and transparency in the sector.
On digitalisation, he stated that efforts were underway to make Ghana’s ports preferred hubs for the Sahel countries, as well as the oil and gas industry.
The GPHA Director-General disclosed that dredging activities would soon commence at the Tema Port to enable it to accommodate larger vessels at berths 15 to 17.
Dr. Kingsley Antwi-Boasiao, the General Manager for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, highlighted developments being undertaken at both the Tema and Takoradi Ports during a presentation on the ports’ operations.
Mr. Tebon Zumah, the Director of Tema Port, led the deputy minister and her entourage on a tour of the Tema Port, including Terminal 3, to witness first-hand operations.