Big Changes Ahead; Ghana Moves To Modernise Port Operations

According to a report by Adom FM on Friday October 2026, Ghana has taken another step towards improving its maritime infrastructure, with Deputy Minister of Transport Dorcas Affo-Toffey engaging Ceris Technologies on potential partnerships to advance port digitalisation, strengthen cybersecurity and improve operational efficiency across the country’s ports.

The discussions, which involved Houmad Elouazzani, Commercial Director of Ceris Technologies at Tanger Med, focused on how modern technology and international cooperation could help transform port operations and strengthen Ghana’s position in the maritime and logistics industry.

The engagement comes at a time when digital innovation is becoming increasingly important in the management of ports worldwide.

As international trade continues to depend on the swift and secure movement of goods, the adoption of modern technological solutions is seen as essential to improving efficiency, reducing operational challenges and enhancing the competitiveness of maritime facilities.

Madam Affo-Toffey, who also represents the Jomoro Constituency in the Western Region in Parliament, described the engagement as productive, stressing the need to explore innovative approaches that could improve the performance of Ghana’s ports while protecting their digital systems from potential security threats.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to discuss possible areas of cooperation, particularly in the use of technology to improve port management, streamline operational processes and strengthen the security of critical digital infrastructure.

Port digitalisation has become a major priority in the global maritime sector, as port authorities increasingly rely on digital platforms to coordinate activities, exchange information and manage the movement of cargo.

Properly implemented, these systems can improve communication among stakeholders, support faster processing of goods and help reduce delays associated with manual procedures.

For Ghana, improvements in these areas could have important implications for businesses, importers, exporters and other players who depend on the country’s ports to facilitate domestic and international trade.

However, the growing reliance on digital systems also presents new challenges, particularly in cybersecurity.

Ports handle sensitive commercial information and support critical supply chains, making the protection of their technological infrastructure an important part of ensuring uninterrupted operations.

The discussions with Ceris Technologies therefore placed cybersecurity alongside digital transformation as a key consideration in efforts to develop a more efficient and resilient maritime sector.

Strengthening digital security could help safeguard operational systems, protect sensitive information and reduce the risk of disruptions that may affect the movement of goods and the wider trading environment.

The engagement also highlights the importance of building relationships with international technology companies to identify solutions that can respond to Ghana’s evolving transport and maritime needs.

Madam Affo-Toffey emphasised the role of strategic partnerships and technology-driven innovation in the government’s broader agenda to modernise the transport sector.

Such cooperation, she indicated, could support efforts to improve port performance and enhance Ghana’s attractiveness as a maritime destination in the West African sub-region.

Ghana’s ports remain vital to the country’s economy, serving as major gateways for international commerce and connecting local businesses to markets across Africa and beyond.

Their efficiency has a direct bearing on the cost of trade, the reliability of supply chains and the ability of businesses to compete in regional and global markets.

Consequently, improvements in port management, cargo handling processes and digital infrastructure could contribute to a more favourable environment for trade and investment.

The engagement with Ceris Technologies reflects growing interest in leveraging international expertise to address the changing demands of the maritime industry.

As technology continues to reshape global shipping and logistics, Ghana faces increasing pressure to ensure that its port infrastructure keeps pace with international standards.

The potential areas of collaboration discussed during the meeting could provide a foundation for further engagements aimed at identifying practical ways to introduce modern systems and strengthen the resilience of Ghana’s maritime infrastructure.

However, the discussions represent an exploration of possible cooperation, and additional steps would be required before any proposed partnership could translate into specific projects or operational changes.

Madam Affo-Toffey reiterated the importance of embracing innovation and establishing strategic relationships capable of supporting a secure, efficient and resilient maritime sector.

The engagement underscores the government’s interest in exploring technology-based solutions to improve port operations while strengthening cybersecurity safeguards.

If these efforts lead to concrete initiatives, they could contribute to improving the efficiency of Ghana’s ports, supporting international trade and reinforcing the country’s ambition to establish itself as a competitive maritime and logistics hub in West Africa.

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