Ghana Navy hosts International Maritime Defence Exhibition

The Ghana Navy has launched the fourth edition of the International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) at Burma Hall, Accra.

The conference, themed “Africa’s Maritime Future: Collaboration, Technology, and Sustainability in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape,” has brought together over 200 delegates from more than 25 countries, including 15 Naval Chiefs.

Importance of Collaboration and Technology

The Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Julius Debrah, emphasized the critical importance of collaboration, technology, and sustainability in securing Africa’s maritime future.

He highlighted the persistent and evolving threats facing the maritime domain of Africa, stressing the need for modern surveillance systems, cybersecurity, and autonomous technologies to effectively counter these challenges.

Debrah urged stakeholders to embrace technological innovation as a cornerstone of maritime security.

Maritime Security Partnerships

The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, lauded the Ghana Navy for providing a platform to address critical maritime issues.

She highlighted the strong partnership between the Ministry of Fisheries and the Ghana Navy in multi-agency platforms that conduct patrols, boarding operations, and surveillance to enforce fisheries regulations.

IMDEC: A Platform for International Cooperation

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, described IMDEC as a landmark platform for international cooperation, strategic dialogue, and forward-looking action in maritime defence and security.

He commended the African Union Peace and Security Council for establishing the Combined Maritime Task Force as a significant step toward a credible multinational maritime response.
The conference highlighted the vast maritime domain of Africa as a source of enormous opportunity for economic growth and shared prosperity.

With the increasing importance of maritime security in Africa, IMDEC provides a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, strengthen partnerships, and shape the future of maritime security on the continent.