Excerpt
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) is the national port authority of Ghana, responsible for the management and operation of the country’s seaports. Established under the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority Law, 1986 (PNDCL 160), GPHA’s mandate includes planning, building, developing, managing, maintaining, operating, and controlling all ports in Ghana.
Historical Overview
Between the 16th and 18th centuries, foreign trade in the then Gold Coast was conducted through approximately 40 landing points. By the 1900s, these had consolidated into six main ports of trade. The development of road and rail networks from the 1920s to the 1940s led to the construction of Takoradi Port. Post-independence, further infrastructure expansion resulted in the establishment of Tema Port and the Fishing Harbour at Tema.
Constitutional Mandates
GPHA operates under the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority Law, 1986 (PNDCL 160), which grants it the authority to manage and control the country’s ports. The law empowers GPHA to acquire and hold property, enter into contracts, and perform functions necessary for port operations.
Leadership and Organizational Structure
The leadership of GPHA comprises a Director-General and directors for the ports of Tema and Takoradi. As of the latest available information, the Director-General is Michael Achagwe Luguje. The organizational structure includes various departments responsible for operations, safety, security, and conservancy services.
Offices and Units
GPHA manages and operates the sea ports of Ghana, including the Port of Tema and the Port of Takoradi. In collaboration with private service providers, GPHA oversees vessel handling, stevedoring, transfer, storage, receipt, and delivery of containerized and general cargo. Additional services encompass safety, security, and conservancy.
Mode of Appointment and Recruitment
Recruitment into GPHA is conducted through official channels, with application forms available on the GPHA recruitment portal. Applicants are required to meet specific qualifications and submit necessary documentation as part of the selection process.
Oversight and Ownership
GPHA is a statutory corporation under the Ministry of Transport, operating as a state-owned enterprise. It functions under the oversight of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), which ensures that GPHA aligns with national interests and policies.
Partners and Customers
GPHA collaborates with various private service providers in areas such as vessel handling, stevedoring, and cargo management. Its clientele includes shipping lines, importers, exporters, and other stakeholders in the maritime industry.
Operations and Job Roles
The Authority’s operations encompass vessel handling, cargo transfer, storage, and delivery. Job roles within GPHA range from port management and operations to safety, security, and administrative functions. The organization employs appropriate technology to enhance efficiency and contributes to maintaining a clean, healthy, and safe marine environment.
Historical Reforms
- In recent years, GPHA has undertaken strategic reforms to enhance capacity and productivity. Notably, the Authority addressed issues related to overtime, resulting in cost savings that were redirected to tackle national challenges such as unemployment. These reforms were achieved through strong collaboration between management and staff.
References
- https://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/gha93378.pdf
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghana_Ports_and_Harbours_Authority
- https://ghanaports.gov.gh/page/index/1/XJ8QGWBS/About-Us
- https://www.recruitmentform.net/ghana-ports-and-harbours-authority-recruitment/
- https://siga.gov.gh/sector/ghana-ports-and-harbours-authority/
- https://ghanaports.gov.gh/media/news-details/343/T2FGPKGMT7C/MANAGEMENT-OF-GPHA-RESOLVED-TO-LEAD-ORGANISATION-ON-GREATER-PATH-FOR-SUCCESS
- https://theorg.com/org/ghana-ports-and-harbours-authority
- https://www.iaphworldports.org/memberports/ghana-ports-and-harbours-authority/
- https://www.mot.gov.gh/4/2/maritime-and-inland-waterways
- https://ghanaports.gov.gh/
- https://www.ghanaports.gov.gh/page/index/2/NS1N55HM/Corporate-Heads
- https://ghanaports.gov.gh/page/index/10/TBH2322W/Our-History-and-Future