Ghana is expected to deploy freight drone technology in the coming years to facilitate the timely movement of goods within the country.
This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, MOU between the country’s Aviation Ministry and International Freight Drone, IFD Organisation. IFD is expected to deploy freight drones that are capable of carrying 10-tonnes of shipping container over 700 kms, and build drone ports in various parts of the country.
Freight drone technology, when fully developed will help get finished goods and fresh agricultural products from the hinterlands to major towns and cities within minutes.
Minister of Aviation Joseph Kofi Adda and Founder and Chief Executive of IFD Thomas Murphy, signed the MOU that lays out a 3-year plan to introduce the freight drones.
Mr. Adda in a statement said the Memorandum stems from the realisation that the success of government drones program in support of the health sector can be expanded to help the Aviation Ministry fulfill the President’s vision of making Ghana the Aviation Hub of West Africa.
IFD will provide expert consultation to an economic think tank selected by the Ghana government to conduct a financial study. IFD will provide cost estimates for the drone port building and operations, drone ownership and maintenance plus will help in developing the logistical cost for moving freight via drone within the borders of Ghana.
IFD will work with educational companies and the Ministry of Aviation to develop certification programs necessary for working with drones and at drone ports.
This training includes drone piloting, drone maintenance, flight operations, ground operations and several other areas of study that must be in place before the first freight drone is introduced.
