The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has outlined a six-point strategic agenda aimed at transforming Ghana’s ports into a world-class maritime and logistics hub.

The agenda focuses on infrastructure expansion, digital innovation, sustainability, workforce development, multimodal connectivity and stronger regional integration.

Delivering the keynote address at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority’s (GPHA) 40th Anniversary Industry Awards Dinner, Nikpe said the next phase of Ghana’s maritime development must be driven by a bold vision that positions the country as the preferred gateway for trade in West Africa.

He identified the expansion and modernisation of port infrastructure as a key priority, stressing the need for continued investment to accommodate growing trade volumes and improve operational efficiency.

He also highlighted digital transformation as essential to enhancing service delivery, reducing turnaround times and strengthening the competitiveness of Ghana’s ports.

According to the Minister, sustainability must remain central to port operations, with environmentally responsible practices balancing economic growth with environmental protection. He further underscored the need to develop the human capital required to drive innovation and excellence across the maritime industry.

Nikpe called for greater integration of road, rail and inland transport systems to facilitate seamless cargo movement and strengthen the country’s logistics network.

He also urged stakeholders to deepen regional cooperation and integration to position Ghana as a leading maritime and trade hub within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

While acknowledging the progress GPHA had made over the past four decades, the Minister said achieving the vision would require stronger collaboration among the government, industry players, development partners and the private sector.

Chairman of the GPHA Board of Directors, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, commended stakeholders whose commitment and partnerships had contributed to the growth of Ghana’s ports and the wider maritime industry over the past 40 years.

He said the anniversary was not only an opportunity to celebrate past achievements but also to renew the collective commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Asiedu Nketiah urged industry players to continue working together to ensure that Ghana’s ports remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic global trade environment.

Welcoming guests to the event, GPHA Director-General Major General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono described the Authority’s 40-year journey as one of resilience, collaboration and transformation.

He paid tribute to former director-generals, directors of ports, staff, customers and industry partners whose contributions had shaped the Authority’s development and helped position Ghana’s ports among the key trade gateways in the sub-region.

Major General Tanye-Kulono said the awards dinner recognised individuals and organisations whose excellence, commitment and partnerships had supported GPHA’s growth and contributed to the development of the maritime sector.

He expressed confidence that continued collaboration and a shared commitment to innovation would position Ghana’s ports to achieve further milestones in the decades ahead.

The Industry Awards Dinner formed part of activities marking GPHA’s 40th anniversary and brought together government officials, former director-generals, directors of ports, maritime industry leaders, business executives and stakeholders from across the transport and logistics value chain.