Ghana is dedicated to strengthening metrology as a foundation for industrial growth, trade, and economic progress.

The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Mrs. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, said this at the opening of the 18th General Assembly of the Intra-Africa Metrology System (AFRIMETS) on Tuesday in Accra.

She described metrology as the unseen framework supporting industrialization, trade, health, and innovation.

She outlined Ghana’s efforts to modernize its measurement infrastructure, led by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) with support from the German government and collaboration with Germany’s National Metrology Institute, the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB).

According to the minister, Ghana is improving its metrology capabilities to establish a fully operational National Metrology Institute (NMI), positioning itself as a regional leader in scientific and industrial measurement.

“Government has already made progress in refining temperature, mass, and electricity measurements to meet international standards and align with SI units.  These reforms support the government’s 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme, which seeks to create jobs and enhance Ghana’s global trade competitiveness,” she added.

Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare emphasised that metrology guarantees quality, safety, and efficiency in sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, and logistics. 

She disclosed that GSA staff have received advanced training in South Africa, Slovenia, Germany, and Switzerland, with further capacity-building initiatives underway.

“A recent milestone was the launch of Ghana’s first Public Utility Metrology Laboratory, allowing consumers to verify electricity meter accuracy, a step toward transparency and consumer protection,” she stated.

Addressing the Assembly’s theme, which marks 150 years of the Metre Convention, the Minister emphasised the need for a metrology system that serves local needs while aligning with global standards to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. 

“AFRIMETS remains a key example of regional cooperation, harmonizing measurement systems, easing trade, and strengthening technical expertise across Africa. Ghana is committed to this shared vision,” she said. 

She stated that Ghana is exploring advanced technologies like 3D metrology, optical inspection, and X-ray and CT systems to enhance industrial capabilities and quality infrastructure.

The Minister urged delegates to participate fully in the Assembly’s discussions and witness Ghana’s ambition to become a center for smart manufacturing, digital trade, and modern metrology. 

On his part, AFRIMETS President, Dr. Henry Rotich, highlighted metrology’s historical and transformative role, from ancient measurement systems to today’s advanced digital and atomic technologies.

He noted that precise measurements underpin scientific progress, fair trade, public health, and environmental protection. 

“Metrology builds trust in trade, fuels scientific innovation, and supports technological advancement,” he said, referencing the 150th anniversary of the Metre Convention as a reminder of its global importance. 

Dr. Rotich commended the GSA for expanding measurement infrastructure and aligning with international standards.

He acknowledged Ghana’s associate membership in the Metre Convention and its work in chemical metrology and oil and gas measurements. 

He encouraged collaboration among participants, stating, “This Assembly is more than a technical meeting, it’s an opportunity to advance metrology in Africa and achieve our shared goals of integration, innovation, and prosperity under AfCFTA.”

Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD