The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has advocated for the Ghana Publishing Company Limited (GPCL) to be granted exclusive rights to print all official state documents, including textbooks and paperwork for government ministries.
Speaking during a meeting with Nana Kwasi Boatey, the Acting Managing Director of GPCL, on March 14, 2025, Otumfuo expressed his belief that the company’s mandate should extend beyond gazetting and printing private documents.
“I don’t see why you are not the official state publisher of all government documents. It would be commendable for the government to award all such contracts to you. Push further for that measure to be put in place. Engage the various ministries too,” the Monarch urged.
Otumfuo also challenged the Acting MD to elevate the company’s reputation and ensure it becomes a leading public enterprise under his tenure.
GPCL Seeks Expansion and Permanent Office in Kumasi
Nana Kwasi Boatey was at the Manhyia Palace to introduce himself as the new head of GPCL and seek Otumfuo’s blessings for his tenure.
“I came to introduce myself, seek His Majesty’s blessings, and assure him that I will honor him with my service. Just as he supported my predecessor, I implore him to extend the same support to me so I can deliver,” he stated.
As part of efforts to expand GPCL’s operations, he requested land from Otumfuo for a permanent printing facility in Kumasi, which would allow for large-scale production and job creation.
“We would like to establish a permanent factory to undertake production. Currently, our new Kumasi office only receives published items from Accra, so it has limited staff. If we set up a production line here, we can create more jobs,” he explained.
In response, Otumfuo directed the Apagyahene to find a suitable location for the company’s expansion.
GPCL Introduces 24-Hour Production System
Nana Boatey also briefed the King on significant strides made under his leadership, including the introduction of a 24-hour shift system to enhance efficiency and meet production demands.
“Upon assuming office, I realized there was a sufficient workforce to run shifts both day and night. This ensures we meet deadlines without delays,” he noted.
As a result of this initiative, GPCL was, for the first time in eight years, awarded the contract to print the 2025 Budget Statement, presented by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson in Parliament on Tuesday.
Ghana Publishing Company’s Role in the Public Sector
GPCL is responsible for printing and gazetting official government documents, including changes of name or date of birth, company name changes, and appointments of marriage officers. Additionally, it prints textbooks, invoices, value books, waybills, and posters and sells the Constitution of Ghana, Acts of Parliament, and Government Gazettes.
With Otumfuo’s strong backing, GPCL could soon secure a greater role in national printing operations, reinforcing its position as Ghana’s primary state publisher.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
