Ghana’s maritime sector stakeholders joined the rest of the world to mark the International World Maritime Day on September 26 emphasizing the critical importance of safety in all aspects of maritime operations, especially as the industry continues to evolve and face new challenges.

Under the theme, “Navigating the Future: Safety First!” Ghana’s celebration was organized by the Ghana Maritime Authority under the auspices of the Ministry of Transport.

On behalf of the sector minister, Kweku Ofori, his deputy, Alhassan Tampuli, stated that a strong emphasis is placed on prioritizing research and development to maintain efficiency within the marine environment, given the evolving trends. This focus is directed towards digitization, automation, and decarbonization, all of which have significant implications for safety.

“The adoption of the 2023 IMO greenhouse gas strategy for instance, which has high levels of ambitions to ensure the rapid decarbonization of the maritime sector would entail the development and use of new technologies and fuels. Precautionary measures would, therefore, have to be put in place in transporting and handling new fuels such as ammonia, LNG, hydrogen, methanol, etc at ports and on board vessels. Furthermore, the workforce at ports and on board vessels need to also undergo relevant health and safety training in order to prevent avoidable disasters,” he said.

The Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Thomas Kofi Alonsi, represented by the Deputy Director General, Yaw Akorsa Antwi, urged all stakeholders to actively participate in global discussions that hinge on the evolution of shipping with safety in mind.

“As we look into the future technological advancements such as automation digital navigation systems, autonomous vessels promise to transform the industry. While these innovations have the potential to enhance operational safety they also require us to stay vigilant and proactive in managing new risks. Cyber security for instance is a new key issue for vessels as current vessels rely on interconnected systems that are susceptible to digital threats,” he said.

A public lecture under the theme “Prioritizing Safety in a Transforming Maritime Landscape” was delivered by Naval Capt. Derrick Godwill Attachie.

He said shipping companies need to invest more in training and development programs that equip the workforce with the necessary competencies and skills.

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