GSA Achieves Key Regulatory and Infrastructure Milestones Under Prof. Gyampo

The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has achieved significant progress in regulatory reforms, financial management, and infrastructure development within the first nine months of Prof. Ransford Gyampo’s tenure as Chief Executive Officer.

Addressing participants at the 32nd Management Workshop held at Hephzibah Christian Limited, Peduase, Prof. Gyampo attributed the successes to enhanced teamwork, discipline, and a renewed focus following the enactment of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).

He described the past year as a period of learning and institutional transition, emphasizing that Act 1122 has fundamentally reshaped the Authority’s role, moving it from a primarily facilitative body to a robust regulator overseeing the activities of shippers and service providers across all modes of transport – sea, air, and land.

Regulatory Interventions to Lower Costs

Under Prof. Gyampo’s leadership, the GSA has implemented several key regulatory interventions aimed at reducing the cost of doing business for shippers. A major win was securing a directive from the Bank of Ghana to address inconsistencies in foreign exchange rate applications by shipping service providers.

The Authority also approved a new charge for the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) for handling heavy-duty equipment and successfully advocated for the deferment of a proposed USD250 charge by the Minerals Commission on imported earth-moving equipment. This demonstrates the GSA’s commitment to protecting shippers from unnecessary financial burdens.

Furthermore, the GSA rejected a proposed increase in cargo handling charges by ground handlers at the Kotoka International Airport. Currently, the Authority is working on a significant reduction in Container Administrative Fees charged by shipping lines, a move projected to save shippers over USD100 million annually upon full implementation after stakeholder consultations.

Reforms are also being proposed for disinfection and fumigation charges at the ports, potentially exempting certain cargoes from blanket fumigation and introducing a sunset clause to limit the practice to identified risks. These measures align with the government’s broader agenda to enhance the business environment in Ghana.

Strengthening Legal and Institutional Framework

To fully leverage its expanded mandate, the GSA has developed and submitted a draft Legislative Instrument to the Ministry of Transport. Passage of this instrument is crucial for operationalizing key provisions of Act 1122 and bolstering the Authority’s enforcement capabilities.

The Authority’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, receiving eight awards from various reputable institutions, acknowledging its growing regulatory impact and institutional reforms.

Infrastructure Development on Track

Significant progress is being made on key logistics infrastructure projects. The Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal (BILT) is 85% complete as of August 2025, with approvals in place to retain contractors and consultants while a private partner is sought.

Construction of the Akatekyiwa Freight Park has commenced, and preparatory work is underway for new Shipper Complaints and Support Centres in Tatale, Tumu, Kulungugu, and Gonokrom. Plans are also progressing for the development of the Tema Shippers Centre.

Addressing Challenges and Aligning with Government Policy

Prof. Gyampo acknowledged ongoing challenges, including insufficient funding for regulatory activities, rising port costs due to inefficiencies, and a lack of seamless coordination among agencies involved in trade and transport.

He emphasized that the GSA’s future work will be closely aligned with government priorities outlined in the 2024 NDC Manifesto, the 2025 State of the Nation Address, and the 2026 Budget, including port fee rationalization, the 24-Hour Economy initiative, trade facilitation, export promotion, infrastructure development under the “Big Push” agenda, digitization, exchange rate stability through GoldBod, and the promotion of intra-African trade under AfCFTA.

Strategic Priorities for the Future

Looking ahead, Prof. Gyampo outlined six strategic priorities: institutional excellence and human capital development, reducing shipping costs, accelerating logistics infrastructure development, strengthening regional and international partnerships, digital transformation, and the passage and implementation of the GSA Legislative Instrument.

He stressed the need for discipline and accountability, warning against complacency and the “government-work attitude” that he believes hinders progress in public institutions. “We must build a strong, fair, and effective regulatory Authority that protects the interests of all stakeholders,” he stated.

Prof. Gyampo also commended the Governing Board for their support and expressed confidence that with clear performance indicators and policy direction, the GSA will significantly contribute to the government’s agenda for the shipping industry. He called for renewed focus, unity, and professionalism as the Authority prepares for the 2026 operational year.

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