DCFO Cynthia Adjaklo Bows Out Gracefully After 41 Years of Distinguished Service at GPHA
In an emotional and inspiring pullout parade held yesterday at the Port of Tema, Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) Cynthia Aba Adjaklo, the first female Manager of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) Fire and Safety Department, officially retired after 41 years of dedicated service.
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Delivering her final address, Madam Cynthia reflected on her journey with heartfelt gratitude and spiritual depth, describing her career as a woman moving “from her family house to her marital home”, a beautiful metaphor for transitioning from service to retirement. From her early beginnings as an administrative clerk at age 18, she climbed the ranks with grit, grace, and an unshakable belief in divine timing.
“It is not only about having numerous certifications, but by the grace and mercies of God which locates you and perfects the will of God in your life from the beginning till the end,” she shared.
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Special Appeals to Management
In her address, Madam Cynthia made critical appeals to GPHA management, drawing attention to key areas that need urgent focus for the betterment of the department:
- Provision of Emergency Equipment & Logistics
She called on the Director of Port to ensure the procurement of essential appliances, vehicles, and emergency tools, specifically highlighting the water tanker, which she noted was a vital resource currently lacking proper support. - Promotions for Fire/Safety Personnel
She appealed for more regular promotions, stressing that deserving officers, especially those who have served diligently over the years, must be elevated to reflect their dedication and competence. - Uplifting Women in Officer and Managerial Roles
Madam Cynthia passionately advocated for the inclusion and advancement of women within the department, noting that although the fire/safety unit has been historically male-dominated, the contributions of women have been valuable and must not go unnoticed.
“I would not want this legacy to be cut short. Rather, I want it continued by having more women in the officer and managerial position… thereby helping to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5, Gender Equality.”
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- Shift in Attitude Toward Safety Culture
Citing this year’s World Health and Safety Day theme, she emphasized that safety is not just a department, but a responsibility and a culture that everyone must uphold across the port environment.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Acting Director of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (Tema), Mr. Zumah, along with other departmental heads, representatives from sister security services, family members, and friends. Their attendance added dignity and significance to the occasion.
The Ghana National Fire Service Band was also in attendance and delivered an exceptional performance, providing a vibrant and melodious backdrop that made the event truly colorful and memorable.
A Life of Gratitude and Legacy
Madam Cynthia’s closing remarks were filled with appreciation to God Almighty, her family, church, colleagues, mentors, and the entire GPHA community. Her faith in God and dedication to service were evident throughout her speech.
“My story is woven with threads of appreciation… I say, God bless you all.”
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As DCFO Cynthia Adjaklo steps into retirement, she leaves behind not just a position but a lasting legacy of leadership, faith, and fearless service. The department, and indeed the entire port community, will long remember her motherly presence and the trail she blazed for others to follow.
