- Tema Customs ready for 24-hour operations
- Tema exceeds 2024 revenue target by GH¢2.9B
- Outgoing commander confident in successor
The newly appointed Sector Commander of the Tema Collection, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Assistant Commissioner Theresa Potakey, has affirmed that Customs has sufficient personnel to support 24-hour operations at the country’s ports.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on the sidelines of a pull-out ceremony for her predecessor, Assistant Commissioner Christiana Odi Adjei (Rtd.), Assistant Commissioner Potakey emphasized that the Customs Division is well-positioned to align with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour economy.
“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,” Potakey stated.
The Tema sector, which plays a critical role in the country’s revenue collection, contributes over 80.5 percent of the total customs revenue. Potakey highlighted the importance of the sector’s success, noting that any shortfall in Tema’s performance affects the entire customs division.
Reflecting on the performance of the sector in 2024, Potakey pointed out that the Tema collection surpassed its revenue target. The sector collected GH¢36,857,370,000 by the end of the year, exceeding its set target of GH¢33,925,850,000.
As the new sector commander, Potakey expressed her commitment to continuing this trajectory of success. She pledged to ensure the sector exceeds its revenue targets and place a strong emphasis on the welfare of her officers. Additionally, she reiterated the importance of collaboration with stakeholders to ensure smooth operations at the port.
“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.
In her parting remarks, the immediate past sector commander, Assistant Commissioner Christiana Odi Adjei (Rtd.), expressed confidence in her successor’s ability to further the division’s objectives. “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,” Adjei said.
