Dr Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff, has commended staff of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) for their role in shaping Ghana’s image to visitors and travellers from across the world.
He said airports served as the first and last point of contact for travellers, making airport employees important ambassadors of the country’s hospitality, efficiency and commitment to service excellence.
Dr Debrah made the remarks at the launch of activities marking GACL’s 20th anniversary celebration in Accra, where the company also unveiled its anniversary logo under the theme: “A Legacy of Resilience: Developing Further, Serving Better.”
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) was established in January 2006 following the separation of airport management functions from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) as part of reforms aimed at aligning Ghana’s aviation industry with international best practices.
The company officially commenced operations on 1 January 2007 with the mandate to plan, develop, manage and maintain all airports and aerodromes in Ghana.
As an implementing agency under the Ministry of Transport, GACL is responsible for the management of Kotoka International Airport, Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi, Tamale International Airport, Ho Airport, Sunyani Airport, the Wa Airstrip and other airstrips across the country.
Dr Debrah said, “For a Ghanaian returning home, there is a feeling when the aircraft touches down. For someone visiting us for the first time, that same moment begins their experience of our country,”
“Ghana Airports Company helps shape both experiences. That is a responsibility worth celebrating today,” he added.
The Chief of Staff praised the commitment of employees working across the country’s airports, including engineers, security personnel, technicians and customer service officers, whose contributions often went unnoticed but remained critical to the smooth operation of the aviation sector.
He noted that resilience was reflected in the daily sacrifices of workers who ensure airport facilities remain operational and safe for passengers regardless of the challenges they encounter.
Beyond passenger movement, Dr Debrah observed that airports played an important role in supporting tourism, investment, trade and job creation, making GACL a strategic institution in Ghana’s economic development agenda.
He said the government’s 24-hour economy initiative would requirements stronger transport and aviation systems capable of connecting businesses to international markets and facilitating the efficient movement of people and goods.
For his part, Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Minister of Transport, said the achievements recorded by GACL over the years demonstrated the impact of strategic investment in aviation infrastructure and human capital.
He commended successive boards, management teams and staff for contributing to the company’s growth since it commenced operations in January 2007 following its separation from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority.
Mr Nikpe outlined five priority areas for the company’s future growth, including safety and security, customer service, sustainable infrastructure development, technology-driven operations and financial sustainability.
He urged the Board and management of GACL to continue investing in staff development and technical training to equip employees with the skills needed to respond to changing technologies, passenger expectations and emerging industry demands.
The Minister expressed confidence that with continued government support and stakeholder collaboration, GACL would build on its achievements and strengthen Ghana’s position as a leading aviation destination in the sub-region.
Story By: Eric Boateng
