KT Hammond
The Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG), has voiced strong opposition to a proposed Legislative Instrument (LI) aimed at regulating cement prices in Ghana.
The move sparked controversy as it allegedly bypassed consultation with industry players, drawing criticism from key figures within the sector.
The LI if passed by Parliament stipulates stiff penalty of not less than three years for Directors of offending producing companies.
Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, CEO of COCMAG, condemned the unilateral introduction of the proposal to Parliament by Minister of Trade and Industry, K.T. Hammond. Dr. Dawson-Ahmoah underscored concerns regarding the fairness, transparency, and collaborative decision-making process essential for the well-being of the cement industry.
Highlighting the root cause of escalating cement prices as the rapid depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar, Dr. Dawson-Ahmoah emphasized the need for inclusive dialogue between policymakers and industry representatives.
In a petition presented to Parliament, COCMAG called for the rejection of the proposed LI and urged the Minister of Trade and Industry to engage with the Chamber and other relevant stakeholders to address underlying price escalation factors.
The petition stated, “We respectfully petition Parliament to decline the proposed Legislative Instrument and direct the Minister of Trade and Industry to collaborate with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers and other stakeholders to tackle the root causes of price hikes.”
Reiterating COCMAG’s commitment to working in partnership with the government for the prosperity of the local cement industry, Dr. Dawson-Ahmoah stressed the importance of recognizing the voices of primary industry stakeholders in decision-making processes.
“We trust that our petition will be duly considered to ensure that the interests of all parties involved are upheld,” he indicated, emphasizing the significance of a collaborative approach in fostering stability and growth within the cement manufacturing sector.
By Vincent Kubi