By Nathaniel Annertey Nartey
In a significant move towards sustaining maritime and transit trade relations, the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) welcomed a delegation from the Burkina Faso Shippers Council for a courtesy call on Friday, 26th January 2024. The meeting, which seeks to strengthen ties between the two institutions, was marked by warm exchanges and forward-looking discussions.
The delegation was received by the CEO of GSA, Mr. Kwesi Baffour Sarpong, who expressed his gratitude for the visit. In a cordial gesture, the Burkina Faso delegation congratulated the CEO on his new role and anticipated a continued fruitful partnership.
A highlight of the meeting was the invitation extended by the Director General of the Burkina Faso Shippers’ Council (CBC) Dr. Kassoum Traore to the Ghana Shippers’ Authority to participate in their prestigious International Symposium on Transport and Logistics. The biennial event to be held in Ouagadougou from Tuesday, 27th to Thursday 29th February 2024 will convene key players in the transport and logistics sectors, including port authorities, representatives of the Union of African Shippers’ Councils, financial institutions, and other vital stakeholders in the transport and logistics value chain to discuss the Global supply chain, challenges, and opportunities under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of the relationship with the Burkina Faso, recognizing the country not just as a transit partner but also as a significant trade ally. He assured that the GSA would play an active and constructive role in the upcoming symposium. Further, he pledged his support to the goals and initiatives of the Burkina Faso Shippers Council, underlining the importance of collaboration in enhancing the transport and logistics sector in the subregion.
The meeting marks a pivotal step in fostering regional integration and cooperation in maritime and trade activities. The commitment of both institutions to work together promises to unlock new opportunities for growth and development in the West African shipping industry. The Country Representative for CBC, Madam Denise Bado Bouda also indicated her support to resolve challenges in the transit trade network.