A two-day workshop by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Ghana (CILT-Ghana) commenced in Accra on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.

The workshop brings together members of CILT and players in the logistics and transport industries to exchange knowledge on effective ways of moving goods and wares within the country.

The forum also aims to provide a platform for stakeholders to develop ideas and policies that will shape their welfare and the industry in general.

Addressing participants on the opening day of the conference, Engr. Mark Amoamah, President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics And Transport (CILT - Ghana), underscored the important role of transport and logistics providers in the country’s economy.

"Undoubtedly, the management of logistics is the backbone of any country. It is even more important as businesses need to be able to efficiently and effectively move goods and services across borders.

Just about a week ago, over 400 million litres of fuel were estimated to be at risk of not being transported from the various petroleum loading terminals nationwide as a result of a sit-down strike by the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union.

Had it not been for the immediate redress by leadership, this act of the drivers might have caused a national crisis. It wasn't that the liquid wasn't available, but rather it was the function of the transport actor. This underscores the crucial role logistics play in all economies," he said.

Engr. Mark Amoamah noted, regrettably, that despite the important role of logistics and transport in the Ghanaian economy, the sector continues to grapple with some challenges and appealed to the government and relevant authorities to take immediate steps to address the headaches facing the industries.

As the 2024 election approaches, Engr. Mark Amoamah emphasized the need for the country to stay united and also urged the government to put in place measures to facilitate the smooth transportation of logistics that will be used for the elections.

He assured the preparedness of the members of CILT Ghana in providing their expertise and services where necessary for the country to come out of the polls united and better.

"It is incumbent, therefore, that the government continues with the improvement of logistics infrastructure such as roads, highways, ports, railways, airports, etc., for sustainable and balanced economic development.

"Ghana will be going to the polls by the close of the year to elect a new president and parliamentarians. We cannot do without logistics. Our electoral success will still be anchored on the efficient and effective distribution of all electoral materials. As an Institute, we are positioned to make our collective expertise and skills available to all key stakeholders for the betterment of our beloved country," he said.

The Vice President of CILT Ghana in charge of logistics, Ephraim Asare, underlined the need for the institute to pay particular attention to the advancement of the logistics industry.

He explained that the movement of goods and services across the country must be of paramount importance to the country’s leaders.

The conference is expected to climax on Thursday, May 30, 2024, with a series of activities lined up to mark a significant day in the existence of the institute.