Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has stressed the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address longstanding challenges in the country’s transport and logistics sector.
Speaking at the maiden Transport and Logistics Sector CEOs Breakfast Meeting, the Minister noted that issues such as infrastructure deficits, high freight and port charges, urban congestion, and road safety require joint effort and innovative solutions.
He acknowledged that the transport sector is currently grappling with several critical challenges and, as such, is not fulfilling its role as an effective economic facilitator or a reliable social service for Ghanaians.
“Transport plays a vital role in the smooth functioning of our society. When transport systems operate efficiently, they open up socioeconomic opportunities and benefits that result in positive multiplier effects such as better accessibility to markets, employment, and productivity.
“On the flip side, when transport systems struggle with capacity or reliability, they can hinder economic growth, resulting in missed opportunities and a diminished quality of life.
“We are aware that the transport sector faces a number of pressing challenges and, as such, is not operating as an effective economic facilitator or a better social service for the citizenry. Infrastructure challenges, high freight and port charges, congestion in our cities with road safety, etc. are just a few of the challenges that have plagued the sector over the years.
“Addressing these issues is a collaborative effort that requires input and partnership from all stakeholders. We, as policymakers, industry experts, and practitioners, have a choice to make regarding how to optimize the benefits and minimize the costs and inconvenience of our transportation system,” Joseph Bukari Nikpe stated.
The breakfast meeting, themed “Competitiveness of Ghana’s Logistics and Transport Sector”, convened top CEOs, industry leaders, and policymakers to strategize on how to reposition the sector as a key driver of national development.
Joseph Bukari Nikpe commended CILT for its contribution to policy advocacy and professional development, noting that the Institute has trained over 6,500 logistics and transport professionals who serve across major government institutions, including the Ministry of Transport.
He also highlighted ongoing discussions between the Ministry and CILT on initiatives such as the establishment of a National Transportation Desk, the regularization of Okada operations, support for tailored training programs, and efforts to reduce the cost of doing business at Ghana’s ports.
“We will ensure the necessary reforms are undertaken so that His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of resetting this economy can be achieved. I therefore encourage you to share your insights on best practices and emerging trends that could benefit our transport systems,” the minister added.
Meanwhile, the President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Ghana, Mark Amoamah, expressed optimism that the deliberations will lead to concrete policy actions.
“This Breakfast meeting has been conceived as a platform where sector leaders can step away from the daily operational demands and engage in open and candid discussions on critical issues shaping our industry. Exchange ideas, discuss pressing business challenges, and unlock new growth opportunities.
“We at CILT Ghana firmly believe that by fostering a spirit of collaboration and knowledge sharing amongst our CEOs, we can collectively deliberate on pertinent issues affecting the transport, shipping and logistics business and investments in Ghana. In addition, the programme is to create the platform for insightful honest discussions and strategic partnerships.
“It is our sincere hope that this Breakfast Meeting will become a regular feature on our industry calendar, a vital forum for strategic engagement and collective action,” he said.
