UK-based Ghanaian legal practitioner, Senyo Le Grand-McKenzie, has thrown his weight behind President John Mahama’s recent pledge to tackle excessive port charges, calling it a timely intervention to stem the tide of rising costs in Ghana’s economy.
Rather than viewing the President’s remarks as mere political talk, Le Grand-McKenzie sees them as a potential turning point in addressing structural issues that have long strained the business environment and deepened the country’s inflation woes.
Speaking on GHOne TV, the legal expert emphasized the domino effect of high port duties, describing them as a silent driver of inflation that affects every Ghanaian.
“When port charges are high, importers pass the burden down the chain. From the shopkeeper to the end consumer, everyone pays more. This spirals into a general cost-of-living crisis,” he noted.
Le Grand-McKenzie argued that reforming the current port fee structure is not just about making life easier for businesses—it’s about protecting the economic well-being of ordinary citizens.
For years, importers and traders have lamented the burden of excessive levies, duties, and administrative bottlenecks at Ghana’s ports. These costs, they say, directly influence the pricing of everyday goods—from food to electronics—on the local market.
President Mahama, in his latest public address, acknowledged these concerns and pledged to reduce port-related charges as part of a larger effort to make Ghana’s economy more competitive and business-friendly.
Le Grand-McKenzie expressed confidence in the former President’s readiness to follow through with his promise.
“I believe this is more than rhetoric. Mahama’s experience in governance and his current posture suggests he is serious about implementing change. I expect this statement to be followed by concrete policies that will ease the cost of doing business and living,” he said.
As the country grapples with inflationary pressures and a challenging economic recovery path, the call for port sector reforms is gaining momentum. Many stakeholders hope that political promises like Mahama’s will translate into measurable relief for importers, entrepreneurs, and ultimately, the average Ghanaian.
