Credit Kekeli K. Blamey
In a significant step toward modernising Ghana’s trade environment, the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has kicked off a nationwide initiative to train 350 new Trading Standards Inspectors (TSIs).
This move aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to strengthen regulatory systems and pave the way for a 24-hour industrial economy.
At the official launch in Koforidua, Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare highlighted the initiative as a top national priority and a clear reflection of the President’s vision for fair and competitive commerce.
“This is not business as usual—it’s a direct response to the President’s call for action. We are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more equitable economy,” she said.
Joining the minister at the ceremony were Deputy Minister Sampson Ahi, Chief Director Noah Tumfo, and senior officials from the Ministry and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). GSA Director-General, Prof. Alex Dodoo, stressed the critical role of TSIs in Ghana’s regulatory future.
“To support 24-hour trade, we need 24-hour enforcement. These inspectors are essential to that mission,” Prof. Dodoo stated.
The newly trained TSIs will be stationed across the country with the mandate to enforce the Ghana Standards Authority Act 2022 (Act 1078). Their tasks include verifying fuel pump accuracy, inspecting market scales and electricity meters, checking goods at entry points, and calibrating equipment in hospitals.
Their deployment is central to the government’s 24-hour economy strategy, designed to boost confidence, ensure fairness in trade, and protect consumers and producers alike.
Minister Ofosu-Adjare also emphasised the urgency of replacing informal measuring units like “olonka” and “grawa” with standardised systems. “We are protecting the livelihoods of farmers and traders by institutionalising fairness,” she said.
President Mahama is expected to officially launch the enhanced TSI programme later this month, reinforcing his administration’s dedication to a standards-driven economy.
The GSA currently operates with 200 TSIs but estimates that at least 2,000 are needed to effectively serve all 261 districts. The Authority has also upgraded its laboratory and certification infrastructure to support this expansion.
“This training isn’t just about skills—it’s about building a nation,” the minister concluded.
