Ghana’s air travel sector has recorded a decline, with passenger arrivals at Kotoka International Airport dropping by 8.5% year-on-year in the first half of 2025. Meanwhile, maritime activity has seen strong growth, with port traffic rising by 12.3% over the same period, according to the Bank of Ghana’s September 2025 Monetary Policy Report.
The report cites several factors behind the fall in air travel:
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Global Economic Uncertainty: International travel demand has weakened due to economic challenges worldwide.
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Cedi Depreciation: The weakening of the Ghanaian cedi has increased travel costs, reducing affordability for travelers.
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Operational Disruptions: Flight cancellations, delays, and service interruptions have dampened passenger confidence.
Conversely, the growth in port traffic reflects a positive trend for Ghana’s trade and logistics sector. Key drivers include:
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Higher Export Demand: Increased global demand for commodities such as cocoa and gold has boosted maritime shipments.
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Enhanced Port Infrastructure: Investments in port facilities and logistics systems have improved efficiency.
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Strengthened Trade Partnerships: Strategic international trade agreements have contributed to higher import and export volumes.
The Bank of Ghana notes that while the surge in port activity is encouraging, addressing the challenges in the air travel sector is crucial for balanced and sustainable transport growth across the country.
The contrasting trends highlight opportunities and challenges for Ghana’s transport and logistics sectors, underscoring the need for targeted policy interventions and investment in infrastructure to support long-term growth.
Source: Thepressradio.com
