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The newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA), Professor Ransford Gyampo, has introduced a set of bold reforms aimed at cutting costs and promoting ethical leadership to revive the institution’s financial health and credibility.
Reflecting on the financial situation he met upon taking office, Prof. Gyampo revealed that the Authority had been under severe financial stress. This, he explained, was largely due to the previous government’s fiscal decisions—particularly the move to centralize surplus funds from various state agencies in order to meet national obligations such as paying bondholders.
In an interview with Adom FM, he admitted, “The decision to pool institutional funds to meet national commitments, like paying bondholders, was critical. But it left institutions like ours gasping for air.”
To address the crisis, Prof. Gyampo—well-known for his academic and civic engagement—has rolled out what he calls an “innovative austerity agenda.” This initiative focuses on improving operational efficiency while reinforcing values of integrity and modesty in public service.
Key Actions Under His Austerity Drive Include:
Travel Reforms: All foreign trips not deemed essential have been halted. For approved travel, all staff—including the CEO—must fly economy class.
“I travel economy class – and so will everyone else. I may be the only CEO in Ghana who does that today. But it is unthinkable and unethical to indulge in opulence while the institution I lead is bleeding,” he said.
Contract Reviews: Existing agreements have been carefully evaluated, with some renegotiated or cancelled entirely to ensure better financial outcomes for the Authority.
Suspension of Incentives: In line with the current fiscal reality, certain staff incentives have been temporarily put on hold to reduce expenses.
Prof. Gyampo also shared his personal commitment to modesty in leadership. He noted that he drives an old official vehicle only for official business and uses his private car for personal engagements.
Addressing rumors that he had acquired a luxury massage chair for his office, Prof. Gyampo strongly refuted the claim, calling it “ignorant propaganda.”
“That claim is not only false but senseless,” he stressed. “Competent propaganda isn’t for little minds. We are here to work, not indulge.”
He further highlighted the importance of inclusive governance, applauding President John Dramani Mahama for appointing individuals who are not members of the ruling party.
“The President has shown courage by bringing in people like me, who are not members of his party, to contribute. That shows seriousness,” he remarked.
Guided by his background in academia and years of union activism, Prof. Gyampo aims to challenge the entrenched culture of entitlement in public institutions.
“We won’t countenance a sense of entitlement that perpetuates what is wrong,” he stated. “We’re here to change the status quo.”
As he settles into his new role, many observers will be watching closely to see if his principled and no-frills leadership style will usher in a new era of accountability and discipline in Ghana’s public service.
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