The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has praised President John Dramani Mahama’s latest appointments to the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), describing the inclusion of two prominent female industry leaders as a historic milestone for gender representation and professional excellence in Ghana’s maritime sector.
In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Mr. Samson Asaki Awingobit, the Association celebrated the appointment of Madam Jemilat Jawulah Mahamah as Board Chairperson and Mrs. Esther Gyebi-Donkor as Board Member, hailing the move as a progressive step that reflects both the President’s commitment to gender inclusion and the nation’s dedication to maritime advancement.
The IEAG highlighted Madam Mahamah’s groundbreaking appointment as the first woman ever to chair the GMA Board, noting her global influence in the shipping industry. As the current General Secretary of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) International and former president of WISTA Ghana, Madam Mahamah is recognised for championing women’s empowerment, maritime policy reforms, and regional trade facilitation.
“Her visionary leadership and consistent advocacy for gender parity and capacity-building are a source of pride, not just for Ghana but for the international maritime community,” the statement said.
Also lauded was Mrs. Esther Gyebi-Donkor, a seasoned figure in Ghana’s port administration with over 30 years of experience at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA). The Association credited her tenure as General Manager for Marketing and Public Relations with driving operational improvements and stakeholder confidence in Ghana’s port infrastructure.
“Mrs. Gyebi-Donkor’s legacy of excellence in communication and strategy has been instrumental in shaping the image and competitiveness of Ghana’s maritime services,” the IEAG noted.
The Association expressed confidence that the dual presence of such formidable women on the GMA Board would reinvigorate policy direction, improve governance structures, and advance industry reforms.
“We look forward to working closely with the new Board leadership to foster a more inclusive, innovative, and investor-friendly maritime ecosystem,” the statement concluded, underscoring the Association’s readiness to support collaborative initiatives under the new leadership.
These appointments mark a significant chapter in Ghana’s maritime administration, with stakeholders hopeful that this era of inclusive leadership will propel the industry to greater heights.
