President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Captain James Richmond Quayson as the new Director of the Takoradi Port, a move widely viewed as a strategic reinforcement of Ghana’s maritime leadership at one of the country’s key seaports.
Captain Quayson brings to the role more than three decades of extensive experience in maritime operations, safety, port management, and labour development.
His appointment is expected to bolster Takoradi Port’s operational efficiency and strengthen Ghana’s position in the West African maritime sector.
Prior to his new role, Captain Quayson served as General Manager, Special Duties at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) Headquarters, where he oversaw stakeholder engagement, external affairs, and corporate management.
He also chaired the Interim Committee responsible for operationalizing the Jamestown Fishing Harbour project.
His maritime journey began at the Regional Maritime Academy and was further enriched through academic and professional training, including a Master’s programme in Maritime Safety and Environmental Administration (MSEA) at the World Maritime University in Malmö, Sweden.
He holds a Class One Master Mariner Certificate (Unlimited), awarded by the Ghana Maritime Authority in 2002.
Captain Quayson has held several notable positions within GPHA, including Harbour Master and Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) at both the Tema and Takoradi Ports.
His experience as a Marine Pilot since joining GPHA in 2006 has seen him play a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of marine operations.
Beyond his operational credentials, Captain Quayson has been active in shaping maritime policy and labour development in Ghana.
He is a former president of the Harbour Master and PFSO’s Network under the Port Management Association of West & Central Africa (PMAWCA), and a key contributor to the National Integrated Maritime Strategy (NIMS).
He also serves on the Marine Manpower Development Think Tank, championing the establishment of a marine manpower bank to create job opportunities for youth in the maritime sector.
His appointment has been lauded by industry stakeholders as timely and well-deserved, given his impressive career trajectory and commitment to maritime excellence.
As Director of Takoradi Port, Captain Quayson is expected to lead modernization efforts, strengthen safety protocols, and foster economic growth through expanded port operations.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
