The Northern Zonal Office of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) recently organized a program aimed at sensitizing the media regarding its operations and trade advocacy in Tamale at the Nim Avenue Hotel. This initiative sought to improve the understanding of selected journalists on trade issues, enabling them to effectively educate the public about trade activities that are crucial for economic growth. By engaging with the media, the GSA aims to strengthen its outreach efforts and foster collaborative relationships that can enhance trade operations across the country. The media’s role in shedding light on both the challenges and successes in the trade sector is particularly important, as it is believed that this could lead to improved trade facilitation not only within Ghana but also with neighboring countries.
The educational event gathered various journalists and correspondents from electronic and print media across the Northern and Upper East Regions, providing them with an opportunity to learn about the vital functions of the Northern Zonal Office. During the program, attendees received insight into how the GSA plays a key role in facilitating trade and ensuring smooth cargo movement within the Northern sector. Attendees were briefed on the office’s core functions, which include assisting importers and exporters, resolving shipping-related challenges, and overseeing transit corridors in the region. This awareness is critical for the media to present informed coverage of trade issues, thereby fostering informed dialogue surrounding economic activities.
Abdul Karim Mushin, the Operations Officer of the Northern Zonal Office, highlighted the crucial aspects of their operations, particularly their commitment to supporting local traders and ensuring the effective movement of goods. Moreover, he urged the media to expand their focus to cover trade-related topics comprehensively. The Northern Zonal Manager, Frederick Atogiyire, echoed this sentiment, calling upon journalists to investigate the challenges faced by traders and drivers along transit routes. This proactive approach would not only inform the public but would also hold relevant agencies accountable for creating a more favorable environment for trade. His feedback emphasizes the essential role of the media in illuminating the complexities and demands of the trading landscape in Ghana.
In addition to addressing challenges, the importance of highlighting success stories among local importers and exporters was underscored. Mr. Muhsin stressed that celebrating business achievements can inspire others while demonstrating the potential for economic growth through trade. By acknowledging and publicizing the successes within the Northern sector, journalists can help build confidence among current and prospective business owners, which is critical for attracting further investments. A narrative of successful trade practices can serve as a motivational tool for other entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the industry.
The program also encouraged journalists to engage proactively with stakeholders in the shipping and trading sectors to ensure their reporting authentically reflects industry realities. This active engagement is vital for fostering a nuanced understanding of trade dynamics and challenges faced by various players within the sector. The GSA reiterated its commitment to collaborating closely with media professionals, as it recognizes that enhanced trade knowledge among journalists will ultimately benefit the broader trading community in the Northern region and other connected areas.
Overall, the sensitization program granted journalists a valuable educational platform to deepen their understanding of trade operations essential for socio-economic development. The GSA’s initiative aims to foster a synergy with the media, creating informed narratives that highlight trade challenges and successes. This partnership could play a pivotal role in enhancing trade facilitation and promoting job opportunities across borders, contributing to regional stability and economic growth. The commitment of both the GSA and the media towards collaborating on these objectives underscores the importance of mutual support in facilitating trade and driving national development initiatives.
