Deputy Minister of Transport, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, has called on the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to prioritise investment in modern aviation technology as part of efforts to position Ghana as a regional aviation hub.
Speaking during a familiarisation visit to the GCAA and Ghana Airports Company Limited, Madam Affo-Toffey stressed that safety and security must remain at the forefront of national aviation development.
“If Ghana is to become an aviation hub, safety and security must remain our top priority. This means continuous investment in modern communication, navigation and surveillance systems to improve coordination and protect our airspace,” she said.
The visit allowed the Deputy Minister to engage with management and staff, assess operational processes, appreciate ongoing projects, and identify areas where Ministry support could strengthen performance. She toured key facilities including the Air Traffic Control Centre, the existing control tower, the equipment rooms housing Communication, Navigation and Surveillance systems, and the new Air Navigation Services Complex.
Madam Affo-Toffey also reviewed the Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record systems, the Multi-Agency Command Centre, and the Ghana Aviation Training Academy. She commended the GCAA for its role in regulating civil aviation, managing national airspace, and ensuring the safety and security of flights.
GCAA Director-General, Stephen Wilfred Arthur, outlined the Authority’s mandate under the Ghana Civil Aviation Act, 2024 (Act 1120), which covers aviation safety regulation, aerodrome certification, economic oversight, and the provision of air navigation services within the Accra Flight Information Region, including extensive oceanic airspace.
Reverend Arthur highlighted ongoing projects, notably the construction of a new Air Traffic Control Tower to replace the existing facility, which faces operational and visibility limitations. The civil works are 54 percent complete, with finalisation expected by the end of 2026 and equipment installation continuing into next year. Completion of the full project is anticipated by May 2027.
He also identified challenges facing the Authority, including high costs of air navigation infrastructure, specialised human resource needs, and security threats posed by drones and laser interference in flight paths.
Despite these obstacles, Reverend Arthur said the GCAA continues to enjoy strong support from the Ministry of Transport and remains committed to ensuring safe, secure, and efficient air transport for Ghana.
Madam Affo-Toffey concluded that modern technology, strategic investment, and strengthened collaboration with the Ministry are critical to safeguarding Ghana’s airspace and advancing the country’s vision of becoming a regional aviation hub.
