Transport sector must deliver measurable results – Nikpe tells agencies

Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has called for stronger accountability, faster project delivery, and improved coordination across Ghana’s transport sector, warning that delays and inefficiencies will no longer be tolerated as government intensifies its infrastructure and economic transformation agenda.

Speaking at the second edition of the Transport Sector Strategic Retreat at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho, the Minister said the sector remains central to Ghana’s economic competitiveness and must be driven with urgency and clear performance targets.

“The transport sector is central to economic transformation, and it must therefore be led with clarity and urgency,” he said.

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He stressed that no serious economy can achieve industrial growth or regional integration without a transport system that is “safe, efficient, integrated, inclusive, reliable, and above all, meets the expectations of its users.”

The four-day retreat brought together agency heads, lawmakers, and senior officials to review progress on key transport infrastructure projects and assess alignment with government priorities, including the 24-hour economy policy and the broader “resetting agenda.”

Nikpe emphasised that implementation, not planning alone, would define success going forward.

“Every agency under the Ministry must understand that it will be held accountable not only for policy alignment, but for execution, timeliness, quality of delivery, and measurable impact,” he stated.

He warned that unjustified delays and weak coordination would not be tolerated, insisting that leadership across agencies must ensure clear timelines and delivery plans for all priority projects.

“Where projects are delayed without justification, responsibility must be established. Where coordination is weak, it must be corrected. Where inefficiency persists, it must be confronted,” he said.

The Minister highlighted progress in aviation, maritime, road, and rail infrastructure, including efforts to operationalise the Tema-Mpakadan railway line, develop the Western railway corridor, and expand port infrastructure such as the Boankra Integrated Logistics Terminal.

He also cited recent aviation developments, including the launch of the E-Visa platform and upgrades to airport systems aimed at improving passenger processing and security.

In the maritime sector, he pointed to plans for 24-hour port operations at Tema and Takoradi, dredging works, and regulatory reforms to strengthen shipping governance.

Nikpe raised concern over labour tensions in the railway and maritime sectors, calling for proactive engagement to prevent disruptions.

“Industrial harmony in the sector is not optional; it is imperative,” he said, urging agencies to resolve disputes early before they escalate into operational setbacks.

He also emphasised the need for integration across transport modes, warning that rail, road, aviation, and maritime systems cannot continue operating in isolation if Ghana is to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

“Intermodal coordination must move from aspiration to execution,” he noted.

The Minister added that road safety remains a major national concern, describing continued road fatalities as unacceptable and calling for stronger enforcement and public education.

The Chief Director of the Ministry, William Kartey in his remarks described the retrea as an important annual platform for reviewing sector performance and improving implementation strategies.

He urged participants to actively engage in the discussions, stressing the importance of innovation and adaptability in responding to the evolving transport sector landscape.

Kartey also assured participants of the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring a comfortable and productive meeting environment.

MA