In a historic move, Ghana has secured a $40 million USD bilateral agreement with landlocked Burkina Faso to use its modernized ports as transit points for the country’s supply chain. This development, part of the broader Ghana Port Modernization Project (2018-2021), led by Richard Manu, Head of Regional Administration at Ghana Ports and Harbors Authority (GPHA), is expected to strengthen Ghana’s position as a key player in West African trade and logistics.
The modernization project, which upgraded the nation’s port infrastructure and implemented cutting-edge automation systems, significantly enhanced cargo handling efficiency, reducing dwell times by 25%. These improvements have made Ghana’s ports more competitive, attracting international trade partners and solidifying the country’s role as a regional hub.
“This agreement not only bolsters trade relations between Ghana and Burkina Faso but also aligns with the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By enhancing regional cooperation and facilitating smoother transit of goods, the deal is expected to further the integration of African economies, making it easier for landlocked countries like Burkina Faso to access global markets through Ghana’s ports. “ as Mr Richard Manu rightly stated
Logistics experts across West Africa have hailed this development as a game-changer for the region.
Samuel Ofosu-Attah, CEO of West African Shipping Lines, praised the agreement as “a strategic move that underscores Ghana’s leadership in regional trade logistics. The modernization of the ports and the new Burkina Faso partnership will set a new standard for port operations in West Africa. Richard Manu’s leadership in driving this modernization effort has been nothing short of groundbreaking.”
Sani Abdoul Aziz, a logistics mogul and president of the African Logistics Federation, remarked, “This is a historic moment not only for Ghana but for the entire ECOWAS region. Efficient ports are the backbone of regional trade, and the improvements made in Ghana will serve as a model for other nations. The bilateral agreement with Burkina Faso is the perfect example of how strategic investments can translate into economic growth for the entire region.”
Elizabeth Oppong, Director of Global Freight and Logistics, added, “This deal represents a milestone in West Africa’s trade evolution, especially under the AfCFTA framework. Richard Manu’s vision and leadership have set Ghana’s ports apart, making them the preferred transit points for landlocked countries in West Africa. This will undoubtedly contribute to sustainable economic development.”
The agreement is expected to provide Burkina Faso with smoother access to global markets, especially for the export of agricultural products and minerals, while Ghana will benefit from increased traffic through its ports. With improved infrastructure and the adoption of automation, Ghana’s ports are set to attract more international business, boosting economic growth and generating employment opportunities.
The landmark $40 million investment underscores Ghana’s strategic importance as a hub for West African trade and positions the country to play a leading role in the success of AfCFTA.
