Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has cautioned against corruption and fraud within Ghana’s Customs operations, warning that revenue leakages pose a serious threat to the country’s national development agenda.

Speaking at the 2026 International Customs Day celebration, Mr. Ampem said the fight against corruption must be firm and sustained, stressing that public funds lost through unethical practices deny the nation critical resources needed for growth.

“We must take decisive steps to eliminate all forms of corruption and fraud. Every cedi lost represents a missed opportunity for national development,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister noted that effective revenue mobilisation is central to government’s capacity to deliver essential public services such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and sanitation. He explained that corruption within the Customs system has consequences that extend far beyond revenue shortfalls.

According to him, funds lost through corrupt practices translate into unbuilt schools, deteriorating road networks, inadequate healthcare facilities, and limited access to safe water and sanitation—challenges that directly impact the quality of life of citizens.

Mr. Ampem highlighted the strategic role of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, not only as a key revenue-generating agency but also as a frontline institution in protecting the country from illicit trade, including drugs, small arms, counterfeit medicines, and substandard goods. Given this responsibility, he stressed that integrity and professionalism within Customs must remain non-negotiable.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Customs operations through policy reforms, digitalisation, and investments in modern infrastructure and technology, aimed at improving efficiency while closing loopholes that enable corruption and fraud.

As Ghana joined the global community under the World Customs Organization to mark International Customs Day, the Deputy Minister urged Customs officers to recommit themselves to transparency, accountability, and patriotism.

He concluded by emphasising that safeguarding national revenue is critical to securing Ghana’s future, adding that a zero-tolerance approach to corruption is essential to ensure that every cedi collected works for the benefit of the nation.