The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has embarked on a new chapter with the inauguration of a 13-member Governing Board, signifying a renewed focus on strategic leadership and institutional transformation. This board, composed of experts from various sectors, including academia, public service, science, industry, and policy, is tasked with steering the GSA towards achieving its mandate of standardization, quality assurance, and consumer protection, ultimately contributing to Ghana’s economic development. The appointment of Appiah Kusi Adomako Esq., Director of the West African Regional Centre of CUTS International, to the board highlights the importance of consumer welfare and market fairness in the GSA’s agenda. Mr. Adomako’s expertise in consumer protection, competition policy, and trade and development brings valuable insights to the board’s deliberations.
The inauguration ceremony, presided over by the Minister for Trade, Industry and Agribusiness, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, underscored the significance of the board’s role in promoting quality assurance and safeguarding consumer interests both domestically and internationally. The Minister emphasized the crucial role of standard harmonization in facilitating trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This highlights the government’s recognition of the importance of aligning Ghanaian standards with continental norms to maximize the benefits of the AfCFTA and promote seamless trade within Africa. The board is therefore expected to champion initiatives that ensure Ghanaian products meet international quality standards, enhancing their competitiveness in regional and global markets.
Mr. Adomako expressed his commitment to working collaboratively with the board and the GSA’s management and staff to enhance the Authority’s effectiveness. He stressed the priority of protecting consumer safety, supporting industry growth, and contributing to national development. This commitment aligns with CUTS International’s mission of promoting consumer welfare and fair market practices. Mr. Adomako’s presence on the board signifies the organization’s continued dedication to influencing policy and advocating for consumer rights and market transparency. His appointment recognizes CUTS International’s contributions to advancing consumer welfare and promoting a fair and competitive marketplace that benefits both consumers and producers.
The board’s Chairman, Mr. Hudu Mogtari, acknowledged the critical mandate bestowed upon them and expressed the board’s readiness to support the GSA in achieving its objectives. He emphasized the board’s commitment to supporting the management in delivering its mandate, ensuring the Authority remains relevant and responsive to the needs of stakeholders within Ghana’s industrial and business landscape. Mr. Mogtari also pledged the board’s adherence to principles of integrity and transparency in its operations, reinforcing public trust and confidence in the GSA’s activities.
The diverse composition of the board, representing various sectors, ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing standardization and quality assurance challenges. Members include representatives from key government agencies such as the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Agribusiness, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ghana Shippers Authority. This broad representation brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the board, ensuring that decisions are well-informed and consider the perspectives of diverse stakeholders.
The inclusion of representatives from the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the Legal Aid Commission further strengthens the board’s capacity to address the needs of industry, scientific research, and consumer protection. The board’s formation under the Ghana Standards Authority Act, 2022 (Act 1078), underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening the institutional framework for standardization and quality assurance. This legal backing provides the board with the necessary authority to implement its mandate effectively and contribute to the overall development of Ghana’s economy. By providing strategic oversight and direction, the board is expected to enhance the GSA’s role in standardization, quality assurance, and consumer protection, thereby fostering economic growth and promoting consumer confidence in Ghanaian products and services.
