The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has expressed concern over a troubling rise in deaths among its serving and retired officers.
Speaking at a Remembrance Service organized by the Retired Customs Officers’ Association (RECOA) in Accra, the association’s president, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ernest Samuel Ackwerh (rtd), revealed that 29 serving officers died in 2023.
“This is alarming and can be attributed to the stress officers endure to meet high revenue targets,” DC Ackwerh said. He added that 21 retired officers also passed away last year, describing the trend as deeply concerning.
Call for Improved Health Support
DC Ackwerh criticized the annual medical reimbursement of GH¢1,500 for retired officers as insufficient in the face of rising healthcare costs.
“Even though the amount was increased from GH¢1,000, it is still woefully inadequate. We propose a special health insurance scheme to cover our medical expenses while we await the establishment of the planned 500-bed hospital for officers,” he suggested.
Leadership Pledges Action
Responding to these concerns, the Commissioner of the Customs Division, Brigadier General Bawa Zibrim Ayorrogo, pledged to address the issues.
“We need to take care of our own, and I will lead the effort to establish the proposed hospital,” he said.
He also advocated for a dedicated cemetery for Customs officers, similar to that of the military, to honor their service.
“Customs is the largest revenue collector for Ghana, consistently exceeding targets. It’s time we have our own cemetery to honor our officers, with the consent of their families,” Brig. Gen. Ayorrogo stated.
The service emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of Customs officers as they continue to play a critical role in national revenue collection.
Leadership Promises Action
Reacting to the concerns, the Commissioner of the Customs Division, Brigadier General Bawa Zibrim Ayorrogo, assured officers of ongoing efforts to address these challenges.
“We should have our own to take care of our own, and I will lead this charge,” he pledged, reaffirming the Division’s commitment to establishing the proposed health facility.
He also raised the need for a dedicated cemetery for Customs officers, similar to that of the military, to honor their service and dedication.
“Customs is undoubtedly the largest revenue collector for Ghana. We have always exceeded our targets, and it’s time to request our own cemetery where we can bury our own with the sanction of their families,” Brig Gen. Ayorrogo said.
Honoring the Departed
The event concluded with a wreath-laying ceremony led by the RECOA, paying tribute to the memories of departed Customs officers.
The gathering served as a call to action for improved welfare and support systems for Customs personnel, both during and after their service.
