By Stanley Kwabla Arku
The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) is set to climax the 2025 World Maritime Day celebrations tomorrow, September 25, with a national commemoration that will bring together key stakeholders in the shipping and maritime industry.
This year’s celebration is on the theme, “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” which underscores the shared responsibility of governments, institutions, and individuals to safeguard the ocean while tapping into its vast potential for economic growth and sustainability.
In the week leading up to the main event, the Authority has rolled out a series of activities aimed at raising awareness of the importance of the maritime sector. On Tuesday, September 23, the Ghana Maritime Authority held a media engagement and float from its premises to Mantse Agbona in Accra. This was followed by a cleanup exercise and sensitization programme on Wednesday, September 24, at the Regional Maritime University (RMU) beach in Tema.
Speaking during the sensitization, the Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, stressed the critical role of the maritime space in Ghana’s daily survival and development.
“Our maritime industry presents enormous opportunities, but it also comes with the responsibility to keep our waters safe and free from pollution. Every aspect of our lives, trade, transport, and essential supplies, depends heavily on the sea. That is why protecting it remains our collective duty,” he said.
He recalled how President John Dramani Mahama launched the country’s first Vessel Traffic Monitoring System in 2012, noting that the system has been instrumental in safeguarding Ghana’s maritime domain. He added that the system is currently undergoing an upgrade and will soon be commissioned by the President to enhance traffic monitoring and security, in collaboration with sister agencies.
Tomorrow’s main commemoration is expected to feature high-level engagements and reflections on shipping’s role in global trade, as well as Ghana’s efforts in maritime safety, security, and environmental sustainability.