Corruption at seaports in Ghana is costing the country an estimated $8.3m every month, according to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
This adds up to $100m each year and is partly due to importers who, with the help of rogue officials, deceive the contents of imported containers.
In an effort to curb corruption, Ghana implemented a port paperless system in 2017 to make the clearing process more transparent. However, further action is needed to eradicate corruption from the country’s ports.
Port Tema, which handles 70% of Ghana’s seaborne trade, and Takoradi Port, which exports minerals from western mines, have both reduced bureaucracy and delays in clearing goods through the PPS.
The inability to fully tackle corruption could have damaging consequences for shipping operations in the African Continental Free Trade Area, causing concern among maritime stakeholders.
Denmark, known for its corruption-free shipping industry, is helping sub-regional countries build similar industries, emphasizing the importance of transparency.
The African Continental Free Trade Area offers a chance to boost intra-African trade through the maritime industry.