Deputy Minister of Finance, Mr. Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has issued a firm directive to the Ghana Customs Service to clamp down on corruption and fraud, warning that every lost cedi weakens Ghana’s development prospects.
Speaking at the 2026 International Customs Day celebration in Tema, Mr. Ampem stressed that revenue leakages caused by unethical practices directly undermine government’s ability to fund critical national priorities.
The event, organised in line with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) calendar, was held under the global theme: “Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment.”
According to the Deputy Minister, the theme underscores the growing responsibility on Customs officers to act with professionalism, alertness, and integrity in the face of evolving economic and security threats.
“We must take decisive steps to eradicate all forms of corruption and fraud. Every cedi lost is a missed opportunity for national development,” Mr. Ampem told Customs officers gathered at the ceremony.
He described revenue mobilisation as the backbone of government service delivery, noting that losses through corruption often translate into uncompleted schools, poor road infrastructure, inadequate healthcare facilities, and limited access to clean water and sanitation.
Beyond revenue generation, Mr. Ampem highlighted the strategic role of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in safeguarding the country against illicit trade, including narcotics, small arms and ammunition, counterfeit medicines, and substandard imported goods.
Reaffirming government’s support, the Deputy Finance Minister said the Ministry of Finance would intensify policy reforms aimed at sealing inefficiencies within Customs operations while boosting revenue performance.
“We are determined to empower Customs to safeguard our national security and economy. This includes strengthening capacity, accelerating digitalisation, and investing in modern infrastructure and technology,” he assured.
Mr. Ampem added that government’s broader objective is to build a Customs administration that is efficient, professional, and responsive to both state interests and the needs of the trading community, while ensuring a secure operating environment.
In an era of expanding global trade and increasingly complex security challenges, he urged Customs officers to recommit themselves to transparency, accountability, and patriotism, stressing a zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
“Your vigilance at our ports, borders, and entry points is critical to securing our economic future. Your work remains vital to protecting society and safeguarding Ghana’s future,” he said.
