Deputy Finance Minister, Mr Thomas Nyarko Ampem has stated the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) as a critical pillar in Ghana’s economic development and national security. He stressed that integrity within the service is essential to protecting public resources and safeguarding the country’s future.
Speaking at the 2026 International Customs Day celebration, Mr. Ampem noted that Customs officers play a frontline role not only in revenue mobilisation but also in shielding the nation from illicit trade, including drugs, small arms, counterfeit medicines, and substandard goods.
He explained that when corruption infiltrates the Customs system, the consequences extend far beyond lost revenue. According to him, such losses weaken the government’s capacity to invest in vital sectors like education, healthcare, infrastructure, water, and sanitation, ultimately undermining the wellbeing of citizens.
“Every cedi that fails to reach the public purse is a development opportunity lost,” he said, adding that revenue mobilisation remains the backbone of government’s ability to deliver essential services.
Mr. Ampem described professionalism, accountability, and transparency within Customs as non-negotiable, given the strategic importance of the institution. He urged officers to see their work as a patriotic duty that directly impacts national progress.
He further reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Customs operations through policy reforms, digitalisation, and investments in modern infrastructure and technology. These measures, he said, are designed to improve efficiency while closing loopholes that enable corruption and fraud.
As Ghana joined the global community under the World Customs Organization to mark International Customs Day, the Deputy Finance Minister called on Customs personnel to recommit themselves to ethical conduct and public service.
He concluded by stressing that protecting national revenue is central to securing Ghana’s long-term development, insisting that a zero-tolerance stance on corruption is crucial to ensuring that public funds truly work for the benefit of all citizens.