The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has pledged cooperation with any investigation into multiple allegations of corruption, malfeasance, and mismanagement, including the $90 million Boankra Inland Port Project.
The accusations, made by the Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG), also involve the alleged disappearance of ten relatively new trailers, the questionable distribution of ten old trailers to some Members of Parliament (MPs), and the unauthorized sale of Tema Shipyard equipment as scrap.
In response, GPHA in a statement issued by General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Affairs Dr Kingsley Antwi-Boasiako expressed its willingness to cooperate fully with any statutory investigative body that seeks to examine these claims.
The authority insists that the allegations are misleading and factually inaccurate, necessitating a clarification of the true state of affairs.

The Boankra Inland Port Project
One of the major accusations leveled against GPHA concerns the Boankra Inland Port Project.
However, GPHA clarified that this initiative is a national infrastructure project under the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA), with oversight from the Ministry of Transport.
Therefore, Dr Antwi-Boasiako explained that GPHA’s involvement was authorized through proper governmental channels and adhered to due process.
GPHA further stated that all directives related to the Boankra Inland Port Project were executed in compliance with regulatory procedures.
It assured the public that all actions taken in this regard were transparent and aligned with national development goals.

Keta Port Project, a viable initiative?
Another point of contention is the Keta Port Project, which some critics have dismissed as not feasible due to its proximity to Tema and Lome Ports.
But, GPHA countered this claim by asserting that extensive feasibility studies have confirmed the project’s economic viability.
According to the Authority, national and international stakeholder engagements have been conducted, and an Expression of Interest notice has been published to attract potential investors. Additionally, GPHA said an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment has been completed and is awaiting a public hearing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
GPHA emphasized that port development is a long-term endeavour, as evidenced by the gradual growth of Ghana’s Tema and Takoradi ports.

Concerns over alleged auctioning of equipment
FDAG accused GPHA of conducting fraudulent auctioning processes, including the dubious sale of a Reach Stacker (RST4517) and the disappearance of ten newly acquired trailers. The group also alleged that ten old trailers had been distributed to MPs under unclear terms, and that Tema Shipyard equipment had been stolen and sold as scrap.
In response, GPHA stressed that all auctions are carried out in accordance with Ghanaian laws and administrative protocols.
To address these specific concerns, GPHA disclosed that an eight-member committee was established to investigate the claims and provide recommendations.
GPHA stated that the committee’s report is yet to be presented, and any necessary actions will be taken after a thorough review.

Recruitment processes under scrutiny
Another serious accusation involves GPHA’s alleged involvement in fraudulent recruitment practices, including the backdating of employment records.
However, the Authority categorically denied these claims, stating that all recruitments are conducted in accordance with legal frameworks and standardized protocols.
GPHA reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and merit-based employment, emphasizing that recruitment processes are carried out with strict adherence to Ghana’s labor regulations.
The Authority assured the public that it does not engage in any form of backdating or fraudulent hiring practices.

GPHA’s commitment to transparency and accountability
Despite the allegations, GPHA reaffirmed its commitment to Ghana’s port infrastructure development and to protecting its assets.
The Authority emphasized that its focus remains on facilitating trade, boosting economic growth, and ensuring that Ghana’s ports serve the best interests of the nation.
GPHA assured the public that it remains open to scrutiny and will continue to work diligently to uphold accountability.
The Authority pledged full cooperation with any statutory body seeking to investigate these allegations, while cautioning against sensationalism that could undermine public confidence in Ghana’s maritime sector.