We have capacity to support 24-hour port operations – Customs

SourceGNA

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Assistant Commissioner Theresa Potakey, the new Sector Commander of the Tema Collection, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), says Customs has enough personnel to support a 24-hour operation at the ports.

Assistant Commissioner Potakey, speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on the sidelines of a pull-out ceremony for her predecessor, Assistant Commissioner Christiana Odi Adjei (Rtd.), said the Division has a 24-hour sector that aligns well with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour economy.

She said, “We have a 24-hour policy, and I am glad that the president is emphasizing it. I believe that apart from MPS, which provides 24-hour services, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and other freight stations will adopt that as we have the personnel to do our work and support that.”

She noted the Tema sector collects over 80.5 percent of customs revenue, and that whenever Tema fails, the entire customs division faces challenges. She pledged that, as the new sector commander, she would ensure they exceed their target.

In 2024, the Tema collection exceeded its target of GH¢33,925,850,000, collecting GH¢36,857,370,000 by the end of the year.

Assistant Commissioner Potakey said she would also attend to officers’ welfare and make sure that all issues with the command’s stakeholders were resolved to ensure that the command exceeds its revenue collection target by the end of the year.

“We liaise with our stakeholders; I will intensify that and operate an open-door policy, ensuring that their issues are addressed. We know how to ensure that consignments are released without delays. We always have a backup to ensure smooth service,” she said.

Meanwhile, the immediate past sector commander, Assistant Commissioner Christiana Odi Adjei (Rtd.), expressed belief in her successor, noting that she is very capable of exceeding the set target.

“I know what she can do and what she is capable of, so she is going to carry the mandate and make it even better, and even when she retires, I know that we have coached and mentored other people who can take up the mandate,” she stated.

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