By Francis Ntow
Accra, Jan 27, GNA – Mr Thomas Nyarko Ampem, the Deputy Minister of Finance, has directed the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to block money lost through corruption and fraud to boost revenue mobilisation.
Speaking at a ceremony to mark the 2026 International Customs Day at Tema on Monday, he said losing huge sums of public funds through unethical practices directly undermined Ghana’s national development efforts.
Ghana marked the World Customs Organisation’s (WCO) Day to recognise the invaluable role of Customs administrations across the globe on the theme: “Customs protecting society through vigilance and commitment.”
Mr Ampem said the theme for this year’s celebration, accentuated the responsibility placed on Customs officers to remain alert, dedicated, and professional in the discharge of their duties, especially against corruption.
“We must take decisive steps to eradicate all forms of corruption and fraud, as every cedi lost represented a missed opportunity for national development,” the Deputy Finance Minister told the Customs officers.
He said revenue mobilisation remained the backbone of government’s ability to deliver essential services, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and sanitation to Ghanaians.
Funds lost through corruption translated into unbuilt schools, poor road networks, inadequate healthcare facilities, and reduced access to safe water and sanitation, with direct impact on the wellbeing of citizens, he stated.
Mr Ampem noted that the Customs Division was not only strategic in revenue mobilisation but in protecting Ghana from illicit trade, including drugs, small arms and ammunitions, counterfeit medicines, and substandard goods.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Customs operations through policy reforms that would seal inefficiencies and shore up revenue to support national development.
“At the Ministry of Finance, we are determined to empower you to safeguard our nation’s security and economy. In this regard, we will undertake policy reforms to strengthen capacity, pursue digitalisation, and scale up investment in modern infrastructure and technology,” he assured.
The goal, he said, was to build a Customs administration that was efficient, professional, and responsive to the needs of both the State and the trading community, while ensuring a secured and safe environment for all stakeholders.
Mr Ampem explained that the world found itself in an era of increasing global trade and complex security threats, urging Customs officers to recommit themselves to transparency, accountability, and patriotism through zero-tolerance approach to corruption.
“Your vigilance at our ports, borders, and entry points is critical to securing our economic future. Your work is vital to protecting society and safeguarding Ghana’s future,” he added.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe