Accra, June 30, GNA - The Minister for Harbours and Railways, Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, has urged stakeholders to work diligently towards the establishment of the Ghana Railway Development Authority.

Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi said the establishment of the Ghana Railway Development Authority would ensure the transformation of the railway system into a "vibrant, modern and efficient" mode of transportation capable of playing a pivotal role in the logistics industry in Ghana. He said the enactment of the Railways Act by Parliament would provide the basis for the implementation of Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreements in the sector. He added that the proposed Authority would lead to a clear delineation of the functions and mandate of the regulatory agency, and organizations engaged in rail operations.

Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi was speaking at a meeting with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Roads and Transport, representatives from the Attorney-General's Department, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, the Ghana Shippers Council, the Ghana Maritime Authority and the Ghana Railway Company Limited at the weekend in Koforidua. A statement released by Mr Tanko Ayuba, Special Assistant to the Minister, said the meeting deliberated on the draft Ghana Railway Development Authority Bill before its consideration and enactment by Parliament.

The Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee, Mr Albert Kwaku Obbin, said the current state of the Ghana Railway Company was of "serious concern" to Parliament and that every effort must be made to reverse the trend.

He stated that the Railway in Ghana had great potential particularly in the area of haulage of bulk cargo, and should be provided with all the needed support to grow. He reiterated the importance of enacting the Railways Act "as soon as possible".

Mr Obbin urged stakeholders in the logistics industry such as COCOBOD, Ghana Bauxite Company, Ghana Manganese Company, Ghacem, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and the Ghana Shippers' Council to continue to collaborate with the Ghana Railway Company in order to ensure its sustainability.

The Ghana Railway Development Authority will regulate the planning, construction, management, safety and security of the railways. It would provide a conducive environment that would attract local and external investors by providing a common platform for all operators. It will also promote competition and efficiency in the railway sector. 30 June 08