Mr Thomas Nyarko Ampem, the Deputy Minister of Finance, says the Government is determined to empower the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to effectively safeguard national security and enhance economic growth.
The Government would undertake policy reforms to strengthen the Division’s capacity to effectively perform its role, pursue digitalisation, and scale up investment in modern infrastructure and technology, he noted.
Mr Nyarko Ampem was speaking at the commemoration of the International Customs Day 2026 held in Accra on Monday.
The Day, set aside by the World Customs Organisation (WCO), recognises the critical role of Customs administrations in controlling the flow of goods and capital across borders.
The celebration was on the theme: “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment.”
The Deputy Finance Minister said the theme underscored the responsibility placed on Customs officers to remain alert, dedicated, and professional in the discharge of their duties.
He noted that in an era of increasing global trade and complex security threats, the role of Customs went beyond revenue collection.
“Customs officers have a duty to protect the country’s borders, ports, airports, and entry points, while ensuring the smooth and speedy clearance of legitimate trade to support economic growth,” he said.
Mr Nyarko Ampem said Ghana had, over the years, relied on the vigilance and commitment of the Customs Division to prevent the influx of illicit drugs, small arms and ammunition, counterfeit pharmaceuticals, substandard goods, and environmentally harmful products.
“These threats, if left unchecked, undermine public health, national security, and economic stability,” he said.
The Deputy Minister said Customs remained central to Ghana’s safety, but protecting society required strong partnerships among government institutions, security agencies, international organisations, the private sector, and civil society.
“Our goal is to build a Customs administration that is efficient, professional, and responsive to the needs of both the State and the trading community, while ensuring a secure and safe environment for all stakeholders.”
The Government’s ability to provide infrastructure, quality education, healthcare, and other essential services depended largely on effective revenue mobilisation, Mr Nyarko Ampem said.
He urged the officers to recommit themselves to integrity, patriotism, and professionalism, stressing the need to eliminate corruption and fraud.
“Every cedi lost represents a missed opportunity for national development,” he said, adding that revenue losses translated into unbuilt schools, poor roads, and inadequate healthcare, water, and sanitation services.
He called on officers to uphold the highest ethical standards and demonstrate transparency, accountability, and service to the nation.
“Your vigilance at our ports, borders, and entry points is critical to securing our economy and safeguarding Ghana’s future,” he added.
Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan, the Commissioner, Customs Division, GRA, said the theme reflected the Division’s role as a guardian of society and protector of the State.
The Division’s commitment to revenue protection and national development, he said, was demonstrated through the prevention of revenue leakages and the mobilisation of resources to support government programmes.
The Commissioner called for deeper collaboration with stakeholders to enhance border security and public safety, noting that collective efforts strengthened Customs’ capacity to deliver on its mandate.
He noted that the Division’s adaptation to modern security systems demonstrated its competence, which positioned it as a forward-looking institution capable of safeguarding national interests in an evolving global environment.
