The Deputy Minister of Transport, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, has discussed ways to modernise Ghana’s ports with Houmad Elouazzani, Commercial Director of Ceris Technologies at Tanger Med.
The talks focused on using technology and international partnerships to improve port operations, strengthen cybersecurity and build more resilient maritime infrastructure capable of supporting Ghana’s expanding transport and trade requirements.
Affo-Toffey, who is also the Member of Parliament for Jomoro Constituency in the Western Region, described the engagement as productive. She stressed the importance of identifying innovative solutions that can increase efficiency at Ghana’s ports while protecting the digital systems on which maritime operations increasingly depend.
Digitalisation has become a central part of modern port management. It can help streamline procedures, improve the sharing of information and support the faster and more efficient movement of goods.
At the same time, the growing use of digital platforms to run port activities and exchange sensitive information has made cybersecurity a key priority. Protecting those systems is essential to maintaining reliable and secure maritime operations.
The meeting with Elouazzani allowed the two sides to examine possible areas of cooperation. These included the use of technology to improve port management, protect digital infrastructure and increase the resilience of Ghana’s maritime sector.
It also highlighted the growing role of international collaboration in responding to challenges facing the maritime industry. Digital innovation and cybersecurity are becoming increasingly important factors in both competitiveness and operational efficiency.
Affo-Toffey said strategic partnerships and technology-led innovation were important elements of the government’s plans to modernise the transport and maritime sectors.
Strengthening Ghana’s ports through advanced technology and improved digital protection, she said, would help position the country as a competitive maritime hub in the sub-region.
Ghana’s ports are central to international trade, economic activity and the connection of local businesses with regional and global markets. Improving how they operate, while securing the systems that support them, is therefore a significant part of efforts to enhance the country’s maritime competitiveness.
The engagement with Ceris Technologies forms part of wider efforts to identify innovative approaches to transport and maritime development.
Although the discussions pointed to potential areas for cooperation, further action will be needed before the opportunities considered can become concrete initiatives.
The Jomoro MP reiterated the importance of embracing innovation and developing strategic relationships that could help create a more efficient, secure and resilient maritime sector.
The meeting also underlined the need for continued cooperation between Ghana and international technology stakeholders as the country works to strengthen port operations and consolidate its position as a leading maritime and trade hub in West Africa.
