GPHA Rebuts Allegations of Mismanagement in Port Projects
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has dismissed allegations of financial impropriety and mismanagement related to the Boankra Inland Port and Keta Port projects, describing them as factually inaccurate and misleading.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the authority responded to claims published in The Insight newspaper, which cited concerns raised by the Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG). The publication alleged irregularities in the $90 million Boankra Inland Port project and questioned the viability of the Keta Port development.
Boankra Inland Port: Due Process Followed
GPHA clarified that the Boankra Inland Port project falls under the purview of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA), with oversight from the Ministry of Transport. The authority’s involvement, it noted, was legally sanctioned, with all decisions taken in adherence to due process.
Keta Port: Economic Viability Asserted
Addressing concerns over the feasibility of the Keta Port project, GPHA defended the decision to proceed with its development, stating that comprehensive feasibility studies had confirmed its economic viability.
“The assertion that the Keta Port Project is not viable due to its proximity to Tema and Lomé Ports is misleading. A rigorous assessment has demonstrated its potential economic benefits,” the authority stated.
GPHA further disclosed that a national and international stakeholder engagement had been conducted to present its findings, and an Expression of Interest (EOI) had been published to attract investment. The Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the project has been completed and awaits a public hearing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Port Development: A Long-Term Strategic Investment
The authority emphasized that major port developments require sustained investment over extended periods. “The development of Ghana’s two largest ports, Tema and Takoradi, did not happen overnight but resulted from long-term strategic planning,” it stated.
Investigations into Auctioned Equipment
On allegations of irregular asset disposal—including the auctioning of a Reach Stacker (RST4517), missing trailers, and the sale of Tema Shipyard equipment—GPHA said an eight-member committee had been set up to investigate the claims.
“The committee is yet to present its report, which will be carefully reviewed to determine the necessary course of action. It is critical that due process is allowed to take its course without external interference,” the statement read.
Rebuttal of Fraudulent Recruitment Claims
GPHA also refuted allegations of fraudulent recruitment practices, stating that all hiring processes have followed established protocols and legal frameworks.
Commitment to Transparency
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to Ghana’s port infrastructure development and assured the public of its readiness to cooperate with any statutory investigative body.
“GPHA remains committed to ensuring that Ghana’s ports serve the best interests of all stakeholders and will continue to uphold the highest standards of governance and transparency,” the statement concluded.
