At the launch of Africa World Airlines’ new Embraer E190 on Saturday, September 19, 2026, Stephen Adjokatcher, president of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), called on the government to tackle the chronic delays in cargo clearance at Ghana’s airports.
Adjokatcher said the hold‑ups are especially damaging for airlines and businesses that rely on the swift movement of critical equipment and spare parts. He noted that the delays run counter to the government’s 24‑hour economy agenda, which aims to foster continuous economic activity and boost productivity.
He questioned why, despite the establishment of customs facilities designed to speed clearance, businesses and airlines sometimes wait several days for cargo to be released. “We don’t understand why there’s a centre brought here by Customs so that aviation is speed, but sometimes people take days before they clear things from the airport here,” he said.
Adjokatcher urged the Transport Ministry to work with the Finance Ministry and other relevant agencies to find a lasting solution. He added that delays in clearing aircraft parts could disrupt airline operations and harm the broader aviation and logistics sectors.
He also called for adequate storage facilities at airports so that airlines can keep essential spare parts on site and access them quickly when needed, thereby reducing bottlenecks and ensuring timely availability of critical components.
The call comes as Africa World Airlines prepares to expand its network with the new Embraer E190, a move expected to enhance connectivity across the region.
