Home Blog Page 622

Exploitative Shipping Line Fees: GUTA, GIFF Call for Urgent Negotiations

By
admin
-
0
Chairman of GIFF, Tema, Forwarder Johnny Mantey, (left), and President of the GUTA, Dr. Joseph Obeng

The President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Dr. Joseph Obeng, has issued a strong call to action for the renegotiation of fees and charges imposed by shipping lines operating in Ghana.

Speaking to Eye on Port’s Kennedy Mornah, in support of the recent demonstration by freight forwarders and allied trading associations, Dr. Obeng emphasized the harmful effects that unregulated shipping charges have on Ghana’s economy, businesses, and consumers. His remarks come at a time when tensions between shipping lines and the trading community have reached a boiling point, with allegations of excessive fees, lack of transparency, and even illegal charges.

“Freight forwarders are not protesting for themselves alone. They are fighting for all of us,” Dr. Obeng asserted. He explained that the cascading effects of these arbitrary fees contribute to a significant rise in the cost of goods on the Ghanaian market, exacerbating inflation and reducing the purchasing power of ordinary citizens.

Dr. Obeng framed the freight forwarders’ protest as a fight not just for themselves but for the entire trading community. This perspective highlights the interconnected nature of shipping charges and their broader economic impact. What may seem like a technical issue—unjustified fees in shipping—ultimately translates into higher prices for goods on the market, straining both businesses and consumers alike.

He also pointed out that the freight forwarders’ efforts reflect their frustrations over a prolonged period of engagement with stakeholders, where no concrete resolutions have been reached. Their call for fairness resonates with thousands of traders, many of whom are struggling to absorb the mounting costs associated with import and export processes. Dr. Obeng emphasized that excessive shipping charges undermine the competitiveness of local businesses and raise prices for goods on the market.

Dr. Obeng’s concerns center on the lack of transparency surrounding many of the fees charged by shipping lines. He highlighted that traders and freight forwarders often do not understand what specific services they are paying for due to a lack of detailed breakdowns from the shipping companies. Many shipping contracts do not clearly define costs, which allows these companies to impose arbitrary fees at their discretion, he said.

On local administration charges, the GUTA President said, “We have stated that we want everything embedded in the freight charge, and then we pay it upfront. When we tell them that, they are afraid to do that because they know that when one shipping line charge is higher than the other, people will shop and get the cheaper one, and so they all come and say that no, we have to do the local administrative charges outside of the freight charges. Clearly, they are doing everything to surcharge the good people of Ghana, and that’s why prices of goods and services have gone up,” he lamented.

Dr. Obeng described this practice as exploitative, especially when traders have no recourse to dispute the charges. He further called on the government to intervene, stressing that Ghanaian businesses are suffering due to the predatory practices of shipping lines.

One of the more alarming revelations made by Dr. Obeng during his address was the sheer scale of foreign exchange lost due to excessive charges levied by shipping lines. He noted that Ghana’s dependence on imported goods makes the country vulnerable to the predatory fees of shipping lines, most of which are foreign-owned.

He estimated that Ghana loses more than $500 million annually to shipping-related fees, a figure that puts immense pressure on the country’s forex. This loss, he explained, is unsustainable for a country that already faces challenges in maintaining currency stability.

The depletion of foreign exchange reserves has far-reaching consequences, contributing to currency depreciation, rising inflation, and higher import costs for both businesses and consumers, he noted. His remarks underscored the urgency for decisive action to regulate the fees and protect Ghana’s economic interests.

Re-echoing these sentiments on the same Eye on Port platform, Forwarder Johnny Mantey, Chairman of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) in Tema, raised critical points regarding the impact of these fees on the freight forwarding industry.

The freight forwarder indicated that the term “illegitimate” used to describe these fees by the lines was also used by the Union of African Shippers’ Authorities, signalling a systemic problem with the practices of these shipping lines.

He said the shipping lines in the country who are “running riot in Ghana” have for years deliberately snubbed the Ghana Shippers’ Authority in negotiating fees and charges, and the government must ensure that stops immediately.

Mr. Mantey expressed deep concern over the increasing financial burden placed on freight forwarders and traders in Ghana. He emphasized that many freight forwarders are struggling to remain viable due to the exorbitant charges they encounter when moving goods through the ports.

During the discussion, Johnny Mantey highlighted the lack of transparency in the fee structures set by shipping lines. This inconsistency is remarkably glaring considering that these fees are not uniform with international practice, citing the case of the disparity in local administration charges between Ghana and neighbouring Togo.

Forwarder Mantey called for immediate regulatory intervention to address this issue.

“From the port of origin, before your cargo is put on the vessel, they charge you an administrative fee. When cargo gets to town, what is the essence of another administrative fee? What are you administrating on the container?” he bemoaned.

“Go to China; go to India. go to neighbouring Togo, apart from them even charging in their local currency, they are charging per Bill of Lading. That is, if you have 10 containers on one BL, and it’s 200 Chinese Yuan per BL, one is 200 Chinese Yuan. But in Ghana it is times 10 for one BL,” he added.

One peculiar and thorny matter is the penalty charged on withholding or non-clearance of shipping containers within the stipulated duration for clearance known as demurrage. This fee, according to trading practitioners, is charged on weekends and holidays, despite these shipping agencies not working on these days.

Forwarder Johnny Mantey objected to assertions that shipping agencies in Ghana have activated online platforms for shipping clearance for use during weekends and holidays, indicating that such platforms are not effective if available.

Simply put, the Chairman of Tema GIFF said whatever rhetoric is being populated by local spokespersons of the shipping line and agencies “does not reflect the reality on the ground.”

Another key issue raised by the two was the use of arbitrary exchange rates by shipping lines. According to them, many shipping companies do not adhere to the official exchange rates provided by the Bank of Ghana. Instead, they use their own inflated rates, further increasing the costs for traders who are already grappling with the financial pressures of high fees.

“Ghana Shippers’ Authority and other stakeholders travel to the sub region to investigate some of these things because we have been complaining. The cost component of Shipping Lines in the whole clearing process in Togo is about 1%, while that of Ghana is almost 6%,” the veteran trader, Dr. Obeng, disclosed.

In the face of these challenges, Dr. Obeng expressed optimism about the recently passed Ghana Shippers’ Authority Law, which seeks to regulate the fees imposed by shipping lines. The law is designed to give the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) the power to scrutinize and approve all charges levied by shipping lines, ensuring that they are fair, transparent, and justifiable.

“The arbitrariness must stop,” Dr. Obeng declared. “With this law, no shipping line can impose fees without the approval of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority.”

“The time has come for shipping lines to respect the Ghana Shippers’ Authority and our laws. If they cannot operate within our regulations, they should reconsider their place in this market,” he cautioned.

This new regulatory framework is seen as a significant victory for the trading community, which has long called for greater oversight of shipping charges.

However, Dr. Obeng also warned that the mere existence of the law is not enough. It must be effectively enforced to bring about the desired changes.

Breakthrough Family Ministries International gears up for ‘Pamuchaha’ 2024

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Bishop Samuel Osei Tutu, host of Pamuchaha

Breakthrough Family Ministries International (BFMI) is set to host its annual spiritual gathering, ‘Pamuchaha’ 2024, under the theme, ‘Intimacy.’

This much-anticipated event, which runs from Sunday, October 27th, to Sunday, November 3rd, promises a transformative experience for all participants.

Taking place at the Breakthrough Dome, Windy Ridge behind Mantrac in Takoradi, Pamuchaha 2024 will be a week-long encounter where spiritual leaders from across the globe will gather to usher in a fresh wave of God’s power, unity, and purpose.

The event, themed ‘Power Must Change Hands,’ is centered on fostering deeper relationships with God through intimacy, prayer, and worship.

Esteemed guest ministers will include Dr. Michael Boadi Nyamekye, Prophet Kwadwo Boateng Bempah, Pastor Tobi Arayomi, and Rev. Eddy Addy, all of whom will be joining the host, Rev. Samuel Osei-Tutu. These dynamic leaders will deliver powerful teachings and prophetic insights aimed at equipping the attendees to experience breakthroughs in their spiritual lives.

Pamuchana 2024 will feature daily sessions from Thursday and Friday mornings at 10 AM to 1 PM and powerful evening services from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. The Breakthrough Mass Choir will lead worship throughout the event, offering participants an atmosphere of divine connection and upliftment.

Ahead of the main event, there will be a worship experience on Friday 18th October which features seasoned worshippers like Mrs. Amy Newman, Joe Mettle, Matthew, Lady Joy, Ato Djirackor, Dorothy, Nana Yaw Ofori, Francis Amo, Kofi Karikari, Faith Essien, Charles Mensah Jr, El Manuel and many more.

Ghana must emerge victorious in December elections -Goodluck Jonathan

By
BERNICE BESSEY
-
0
Dr Goodluck Jonathan

Former Nigerian President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, leader of the West Africa Elders Forum, has emphasized the importance of Ghana emerging victorious in the upcoming December 7 general elections.

According to him, the stability of one nation affects the entire region, stating “When one country goes down, a country like Ghana goes down and it will affect the entire region.”

Dr. Goodluck Jonathan was speaking during a meeting with the National Election Security Task Force in Ghana, where he addressed key stakeholders, including military and paramilitary leaders from both Ghana and Nigeria. He expressed gratitude for their commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.

The West Africa Elders Forum, established in 2020, aims to address electoral challenges that can lead to conflict.

The Nigerian Former President noted that approximately 70% of regional conflicts stem from poorly conducted elections. “Our goal is to interact with key stakeholders months before elections to mitigate potential issues,” he said, underscoring the forum’s preventive diplomacy approach.

He praised Ghana’s track record in democratic practices, calling it a model for the region.

“By all standards, Ghana is a good example of democracy in Africa,” he asserted. He stressed that successful elections require public confidence in both the Electoral Commission and security institutions.

Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare echoed Dr. Jonathan’s sentiments, highlighting the need for collaboration among all stakeholders to maintain peace and security throughout the electoral process.

As Ghana prepares for the elections, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working for the stability of not just Ghana, but the entire West African region, emphasizing the broader implications of the electoral process for Africa as a whole.

Editorial: Gov’t Must Consolidate Economic Gains For Sustainable Growth

By
THE CHRONICLE
-
0
Editorial

The recent pronouncement by the government that the economy has returned to its pre-COVID-19 status is a remarkable achievement. As outlined by the Deputy Minister for Finance, Dr. Alex Ampaabeng, during the town hall meeting in Tamale, three successive quarters of positive economic growth, with inflation projected to hit 15% by year-end, showcase Ghana’s resilience in bouncing back from the pandemic-induced economic recession.

However, as much as these gains are commendable, it is crucial for the government to ensure that these hard-fought successes are consolidated to prevent future collapses. The government is boasting about the gains on the back of claims from its opponents that gross mismanagement steered the economy into a ditch. It is only prudent, for want of a better word, that the government proved critics wrong. Anything to the contrary will only give credence to the long-held conviction of the opponents.

In 2017, the government took over an economy that it said was grappling with problems and had even sought a bailout from the International Monetary Fund. Inflation in 2016 was 15.4%. But the government managed to reduce it to 11.8% at the end of 2017. In 2018 and 2019, inflation reduced to 9.4% and 7.9% respectively, until COVID-19 struck in 2020.

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic threw the global economy into disarray and Ghana was not spared. Last year, inflation surged to over 54%, but the country has clawed its way back to a more manageable inflation rate of 21.5%, with hopes of reaching 15% by December, which is no mean achievement.

The government’s achievement in stabilising the economy is further backed by growth rates of 4.7% and 6.9% in the first and second quarters of 2024, respectively. Yet these figures, while encouraging, should not lead the government into complacency.We think that a robust economy cannot be sustained solely through short-term recovery. There is an urgent need to implement long-term strategies that will fortify the economy against future shocks.

In this vein, the government’s IMF-supported Post-COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG), which appears to be beneficial to our economy, must be reviewed periodically and improved upon.

It is our hope that the current IMF programme will actually be the last. Ghanaians will recall that this government tried not to seek an IMF bailout after the previous one in 2015. However, as the saying goes, if wishes were horses, beggars would ride. So, today, we find ourselves at the behest of the Briton Wood’s Institution again.

At this point, after about 19 appearances at the institution, we can only conclude that the IMF only manages the situation and does not cure it. Otherwise, governments have disappointed us, the citizens, for not being able to build on the foundations these IMF bailouts laid anytime we sought their assistance.

The Chronicle is of the opinion that one of the key areas where the government must be relentless is maintaining fiscal discipline.Given that this is a year for elections, the temptation for the government of the day to overspend is there, but as the administration has promised that they should have no appetite for spending more than budgeted to canvass for votes.

The pandemic exacerbated Ghana’s public debt, and despite the ongoing recovery, the risk of debt distress remains a pressing concern. Fiscal prudence, therefore, must be at the core of the government’s policy framework moving forward.

We are of the view that inflation, while projected to fall to 15% by the end of this year, still presents a significant threat to the purchasing power of Ghanaians. The government must remain vigilant in monitoring inflationary trends and put in place mechanisms to control price volatility, especially for essential commodities such as food and fuel.

Economic experts have informed us that proactive measures like boosting local production, improving supply chain efficiencies, and curbing speculative practices in the market are necessary to protect the gain made.

It is our position to the government that while the return to the pre-COVID economic era is a remarkable achievement, this, to us, must be seen as the beginning, not the end, of a journey toward sustainable economic growth.

The government must be mindful of the potential for future shocks, whether global or domestic, and ensure that the foundations of the economy are strong enough to withstand them.

My vision is to create jobs for Ghanaians -Nana Kwame Bediako

By
admin
-
0
Nana Kwame Bediako (middle) addressing the people

Independent Presidential Candidate, Nana Kwame Bediako, alias Cheddar, says his aim to contest for the position of the first gentleman of Ghana is to help create jobs for the many Ghanaians who roam about daily on the streets.

“I am a leader and not a politician. I am responsible for social responsibilities. I care for people, I care for nature. I am in Obuasi to jawjaw with you,” he stated.

Nana Kwame Bediako made the statement when he visited Obuasi to interact with members of the Small Scale Miners Association.

What was supposed to be a small meeting turned out to be a mammoth rally as residents who heard of his presence in the mining town rushed to Tutuka Asikafoamantem where the Small Scale Miners Association office is located in their numbers to listen to his message.

Nana Kwame Bediako told his audience that he wouldn’t like to sit in Accra and talk about galamsey or Small Scale Mining, hence he had come down to Obuasi to see things for himself and jawjaw with the people in an effort to see the way forward.

“I have come here to support you to build a better economy that will make you happy. I want you to feel my presence. I am also looking at how you would be positioned to create jobs for yourselves,” he said.

The Independent Presidential Candidate further said “Let us all jaw-jaw and see how the gold could be extracted without causing havoc to the river or the vegetation.”

He stated that the majority of Ghanaians are unemployed and said if the government had created enough jobs, the youth wouldn’t have found themselves in all sorts of jobs, sometimes to the detriment of their lives.

He questioned the rationale for voting to bring leaders only for the leaders to lord their position on the very people who brought them to power.

Nana Kwame Bediako noted that the thumb was very useful to humans and for that matter before one decides to thumb print for any politician, the one should think carefully about the calibre of the person he or she is voting for.

He assured that he would continue to partner the people of Obuasi to help find solutions to their myriads of problems should he win the Presidential elections or not.

The Chairman of the Small Scale Miners Association, Mr. Kofi Adams on behalf of the association and the Obuasi community thanked him for his inspirational message.

From Frederick Danso Abeam, Obuasi

AU calls for stronger collaboration …ahead of December 7 elections

By
BERNICE BESSEY
-
0
ECOSOCC

Dr Jonathan Sandy, Head of the African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (AU ECOSOCC) Peace has called for enhanced collaboration among the Electoral Commission of Ghana, the media and security services, as the nation approaches the 2024 General Elections.

Dr. Sandy emphasised that such cooperation is essential for ensuring free and fair elections and for bolstering public trust in state institutions.

Speaking at a multi-stakeholder dialogue on media and security organised by the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), in partnership with Kingdom Concept Consult in Accra, he noted that while Ghana has made progress in past elections, there are still lessons to be learned from countries that have successfully implemented electoral reforms.

The AU is prepared to offer guidance and share best practices related to security sector reforms and the media’s role in the electoral process.

He suggested that Ghana should establish standard operational guidelines to enhance public confidence in the electoral process.

Dr Sandy highlighted the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure a smooth and transparent election, stating, “It is crucial that all parties come together.”

He identified challenges such as the transmission of electoral results, transparency issues, and political identity-based tensions as potential contributors to election-related violence.

Major General Richard Addo-Gyane, Commandant of KAIPTC, underscored the need for a collective effort among stakeholders to maintain peace and stability before, during, and after the elections. “This year presents another opportunity to conduct violence-free elections. It’s vital that everyone plays their part in preventing disruptions,” he said.

The media was urged to combat misinformation that could undermine the peace enjoyed since the inception of the Fourth Republic.

Dr. Sandy charged the media to be cautious in their reporting and to avoid sensationalism that could escalate tensions. He also urged security services to uphold professional standards and refrain from actions that might undermine public confidence in the electoral process.

He emphasised the importance of ongoing information sharing and collaboration among the media, security forces, and other stakeholders, stating “The integrity of election results can only be guaranteed in an atmosphere of cooperation and transparency.”

Dr. Abena Animwaa Yeboah-Banin, Head of the Department of Communications at the University of Ghana, called on the media to educate the public on critically evaluating information, checking the credibility of sources, identifying biases and questioning the accuracy of claims.

Regarding misinformation, she urged the media to allocate resources for fact-checking and debunking false information, particularly on digital platforms.

“The media should strive for balanced and objective reporting, presenting diverse perspectives and avoiding sensationalism or partisan narratives,” she said.

Dr. Yeboah-Banin also encouraged security agencies to work with the media to identify and address election-related misinformation and potential hotspots, fostering peace and trust in the electoral process.

Ms. Princess Sekyere-Bih, Director of Kingdom Concept Consult, highlighted various challenges, including issues surrounding access to information where security concerns conflict with the media’s right to report.

She warned that attempts by security services to maintain order could sometimes infringe on media freedom.

“This delicate balance requires clear guidelines, mutual respect, and ongoing communication between security forces and media representatives to ensure that both security needs and press freedom are addressed without compromising democracy,” she stated.

3 Sales boys granted bail for stealing 

By
BERNICE BESSEY
-
0
Accra Circuit Court

Samuel Bright Acquah, presiding Judge of the Circuit Court in Accra, has granted bail to three Sales boys charged with stealing plastic bowls valued at GH¢21,600.

The accused, Emmanuel Botchway (30yrs), Stephen Kotey (27yrs), and Enoch (39yrs) appeared in court yesterday and pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecution, led by Inspector Sheila Tetteh, outlined the case against the three men, who were employed by complainant Liu Huijin, a Chinese national, residing at Mamprobi, a suburb of Accra.

According to court records, the thefts occurred on or before June 26, 2024 and were captured on CCTV footage in the Complainant’s warehouse.

Liu reported a total of eighteen boxes of plastic bowls stolen from his premises. Botchway and Kotey were apprehended on July 4, 2024 with Botchway allegedly admitting to his involvement in the thefts, citing financial difficulties.

Kotey claimed he stole to recover losses from his salary due to absences caused by illness. Enoch, who remains at large, is also accused of stealing twelve boxes valued at GH¢14,400.

The court granted them bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 with three sureties, and the case continues on October 14, 2024 as authorities work to apprehend Enoch.

‘Kumawood is not dead’ -Mercy Asiedu insists

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Mercy Asiedu

Ghanaian actress Mercy Asiedu has addressed claims that the Kumawood film industry has declined. In an interview with Hitz FM on 8 October 2024, she asserted that the industry is far from dead, emphasising that Kumawood’s current challenges stem from a lack of technological advancement.

According to her, there is still an abundance of talent, but the technology needed to distribute the films effectively isn’t available.

“Kumawood is not dead. Actors and actresses are still available; producers are still available; it’s just that technology has changed,” Asiedu stated.

She highlighted the shift from physical CD sales to digital platforms, noting that producers used to recoup their investments quickly through CD sales, a model that is no longer viable.

“At first, producers could release films every Monday and get their money back within the week. But now, nobody is buying CDs anymore,” she added.

Mercy Asiedu attributed the situation to industry players who were slow to adapt to technological advancements, stating that this delay is a major reason for the industry’s struggles.

“Those responsible for the film industry in the country weren’t quick enough to adapt to changing technology, which is why we are where we are,” she explained.

Credit: pulse.com.gh

Taylor Swift surpasses Rihanna as world’s richest female musician

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Taylor Swift

American Pop star and musician, Taylor Swift has become the world’s richest female musician with an estimated net worth of $1.6 billion, surpassing Rihanna.

Swift’s wealth primarily comes from her music career, including her record-breaking Eras Tour and a highly valuable music catalogue. She is second only to Jay-Z on Forbes’ list of richest musicians.

Taylor Swift’s Net Worth

According to Forbes, as of October 8, 2024, Swift’s estimated net worth surpassed that of Rihanna whose net worth is at $1.4 billion. Hip-hop legend Jay-Z is the leading richest musician with the highest net worth at $2.5 billion.

The Grammy-winning singer is the first musician to achieve billionaire status mainly through her songs and performances.

“Her fortune includes nearly $600 million amassed from royalties and touring, plus a music catalog worth an estimated $600 million and some $125 million in real estate,” Forbes adds its rankings.

In addition to this, she earns $600 million from royalties and touring, complemented by around $125 million in real estate assets, Forbes stated.

The Eras Tour is estimated to be the most profitable in American history as it is projected to generate up to $4.1 billion for the singer.

Swift has finished the European part of her Eras Tour and will wind up the tour by the end of 2024.

Rihanna previously held the number-one spot for richest female musicians with a net worth of $1.4 Billion. Forbes reported that Rihanna’s wealth is largely due to her ventures outside of music, notably her cosmetics line Fenty Beauty, which doubled its revenue in 2022. Additionally, she owns a 28% stake in the Savage x Fenty lingerie line, which raised $125 million in a funding round in January 2022.

Fella Makafui features in Season 2 of Netflix series ‘Anikulapo’

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Ghanaian actress Fella Makafui

Ghanaian actress Fella Makafui has earned a role in the Season 2 of Nigerian Netflix series ‘Anikulapo’. According to the National Film Authority of Ghana which engineered this move, they set out on a mission to collaborate with sister African countries as a path to opening doors for Ghanaian talents on the world stage.

In a Facebook post, the film authority wrote that they “are pleased to announce that beautiful and hardworking Fella Makafui will be introduced as a main character entering this groundbreaking Nigerian ‘African’ masterpiece in the second season, green lighted by Netflix to show in over 191 countries under our #ShootInGhana agenda, even as we work to position Ghana as a shooting destination and as well, work on the market place with the cinema agenda and enabling other platforms.”

They also expressed their gratitude to Kunle Afolayan, the producer and director of the series for working with the authority on this agenda.

“The story delves into pre-colonial time and Fella learnt to speak the Yoruba language from scratch what dedication to the craft,” the post further reveals.

Earlier in June 2024, it was announced that a part of the Season 2 of Nigerian movie, ‘Anikulapo’ would be filmed in Ghana, filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has announced.

Afolayan made this announcement at the recent Nigeria International Film and TV Summit (NIFS) held in Cannes, France with various film industry gurus and media personalities in attendance.

This is in tandem with the National Film Authority’s, ‘Shoot in Ghana’ initiative.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

1...621622623...2,454Page 622 of 2,454

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©
The Ghanaian Chronicle