Ghana has officially opened the 4th International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC 2025) at the Burma Hall of the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters in Accra.

The two-day event, hosted by the Ghana Navy, is being held under the theme:
“Securing Africa’s Maritime Future: Collaboration, Technology and Sustainability in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape.”

Speaking at the opening ceremony on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, emphasized the urgent need for African countries to work together to safeguard the continent’s maritime interests.

He said the conference provides an important platform for dialogue and collaboration, especially at a time when regional waters, particularly the Gulf of Guinea—remain vulnerable to threats.

“We are privileged to bring together Africa’s naval forces, defence leaders, and international partners to develop impactful solutions for maritime safety,” he stated. “Through technology, joint strategy, and mutual trust, we can protect our coastlines and secure our future.”

Delivering the keynote address, Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Julius Debrah, applauded the Ghana Navy and event organizers for consistently hosting what he described as a landmark platform for strategic maritime engagement.

He noted that Africa’s maritime space faces evolving threats such as illegal fishing, piracy, trafficking, and transnational crime, and stressed the need for investment in surveillance, cybersecurity, and environmental preservation.

“Africa’s blue economy holds vast potential, but it is under persistent threat. We must secure our waters while also preserving them for future generations,” Mr. Debrah added.

The opening ceremony was graced by several high-profile dignitaries, including; Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development; Lt. Gen. William Agyapong, Chief of the Defence Staff; Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, Chief of the Army Staff; Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong, Chief of the Air Staff.

Also in attendance were naval chiefs and defence representatives from across Africa and partner countries, as well as diplomats, private sector leaders, security analysts, and exhibitors.

IMDEC 2025 continues on Wednesday with a series of panel discussions, bilateral meetings, and exhibitions of advanced naval technologies, all aimed at enhancing Africa’s maritime defence and fostering greater regional cooperation.

AS/MA

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