The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has commenced its 50th anniversary celebrations with a launch event in Accra, where key stakeholders, industry veterans and government officials gathered to commemorate the Authority’s contributions to Ghana’s shipping and logistics industry.
The event was graced by the Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, who highlighted the passage of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).
The new legislation replaces the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act of 1974 (NRCD 254), addressing longstanding challenges in the commercial shipping sector.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr Asiamah emphasised on the necessity of modernising the legal framework governing the GSA to adapt to the dynamic shipping environment.
“This Act creates a viable shipping ecosystem that fosters fairness, efficiency and competitiveness while ensuring the interests of shippers are adequately protected,” he said.
The Minister praised the GSA’s historical achievements, including negotiating competitive freight rates for cocoa exports, facilitating the Boankra Inland Port project and providing warehousing facilities at Tema Port.
He also acknowledged the Authority’s role in reducing shipping costs and resolving disputes within the sector.
The Minister for Transport expressed optimism about the Authority’s future, urging stakeholders to focus on sustainable growth and technological innovation to ensure Ghana remains competitive in the global shipping industry.
Kwesi Okyere Baffour Sarpong, CEO of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, lauded the organisation’s resilience and adaptability over the past five decades.
Reflecting on the GSA’s transformation, he noted the strategic alignment of its mandate with modern demands through digitization and stakeholder engagement.
“The GSA is no longer just a regulator; we are a partner in progress, connecting Ghana to the global economy,” he said.
Mr. Sarpong outlined recent milestones, including digitized complaint resolution platforms and tailored services for different categories of shippers.
He also spotlighted the Boankra Inland Port, which is 50% complete, as a game-changer for Ghana’s logistics infrastructure.
The Board Chairperson, Madam Stella Wilson, acknowledged the GSA’s commitment to good corporate governance, transparency, and innovation, which have positioned the Authority as a model institution in Ghana.
“Our vision is to remain a beacon of excellence, not just in Ghana but globally, as we navigate the complexities of the shipping and logistics industry,” she remarked.
Honouring Pioneers
The event also paid tribute to past leaders and retirees who laid the foundation for the Authority’s achievements. Former Chief Executives, including Dr. Kofi Mbiah, were celebrated for their pioneering efforts.
The 50th anniversary celebrations, themed “Celebrating 50 Years of Resilience; Honouring Our Legacy and Inspiring Innovative Excellence,” will include a series of activities aimed at reflecting on the GSA’s journey and charting its future path.
