Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem has underscored the central role of Customs officers in safeguarding Ghana’s borders, public health, and economic stability, as the country marked International Customs Day 2026. Speaking at the commemoration on January 26, Mr. Ampem noted that the mandate of Customs extends far beyond revenue collection, placing the service at the core of national security and trade facilitation.
He explained that the day, instituted by the World Customs Organization, highlights the critical contributions of Customs administrations worldwide. This year’s theme, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” he said, reflects the growing responsibility on officers to remain alert, professional, and dedicated in the face of expanding global trade and complex security challenges. Mr. Ampem emphasised that Customs officers are tasked with securing borders, ports, airports, and other entry points, while ensuring the efficient clearance of legitimate goods to drive economic growth.
He praised the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority for its continued vigilance in preventing the entry of illicit drugs, small arms and ammunition, counterfeit medicines, substandard goods, and environmentally harmful products. “These threats, if not checked, undermine public health, national security, and economic stability,” he said, adding that Customs remains central to Ghana’s safety.
The Deputy Minister stressed that protecting society is a shared responsibility that requires strong partnerships among government institutions, security agencies, international organisations, the private sector, and civil society.
He said the Ministry of Finance is committed to empowering Customs through policy reforms, increased digitalisation, and investment in modern infrastructure and technology. The aim, he noted, is to build an efficient, professional, and responsive Customs administration that serves both the state and the trading community while ensuring a safe environment for all.
Mr. Ampem underscored the critical role of revenue mobilisation, describing it as the backbone of national development. He explained that the government’s ability to deliver infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other essential services hinges on meeting revenue targets—an area where Customs plays a vital role. He urged officers to support the Ghana Revenue Authority in achieving its goals and called on them to recommit to integrity and patriotism in their work.
Corruption and fraud, he warned, must be eliminated, as every cedi lost translates into missed opportunities for progress. Revenue leakage, he noted, results in unbuilt schools, deteriorating roads, and inadequate healthcare, water, and sanitation. Mr. Ampem therefore, urged Customs officers to uphold the highest ethical standards, serving as models of transparency, accountability, and dedication to the nation.
He concluded by acknowledging the critical role of Customs officers at Ghana’s ports and borders in securing the country’s economic future and wished the Ghana Revenue Authority and all Customs officers a happy International Customs Day.
Source: Edward Acquah
