Hot SourceBy Patrick Biddah
Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has pledged increased government support to the Ghana Navy, announcing plans to provide advanced patrol vessels and resources to boost maritime security.
He made the announcement during his keynote address at the opening of the 4th International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC 2025), currently underway in Accra.
The two-day event, which has drawn delegates from over 30 countries across Africa and beyond, is being held under the theme, “Securing Africa’s Maritime Future: Collaboration, Technology, and Sustainability in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape.”
Mr Debrah, emphasized that the government is focused on equipping the Navy with offshore and fast patrol vessels, enabling it to tackle piracy, illegal fishing, and other threats within Ghana’s exclusive economic zone.
“Our government remains resolute in its commitment to provide the Ghana Navy with the resources and assets necessary for effective maritime patrol,” he stated.
He said these efforts are part of a broader strategy to protect vital economic zones and enhance regional security in the Gulf of Guinea.
The Chief of Staff, also revealed ongoing talks with key international partners, including the U.S. Africa Command, aimed at boosting joint operations, intelligence sharing, and logistics coordination.
As Ghana positions itself as a regional trade and investment hub under AfCFTA, Mr Debrah noted that secure maritime borders are central to national and continental development.
He used the occasion to call for stronger unity among African nations in defending their maritime interests, saying Africa must speak with “a unified voice” in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment.
“In an era of shifting alliances and global tension, we must shape our own maritime security agenda,” he said.
Mr Debrah, praised the Ghana Navy and Great Minds Events Management for their continued leadership in hosting IMDEC, which he described as more than just a conference, but a “call to action.”
He also urged participating nations to move beyond dialogue and adopt collaborative, tech-driven, and sustainable strategies to protect African waters.
Environmental protection, marine biodiversity, and climate resilience must be part of the security agenda, he added, insisting that safeguarding the seas is key to future prosperity.
With maritime threats growing more complex, the Chief of Staff said Africa’s response must be agile, coordinated, and supported by innovation and political will.
The IMDEC 2025 conference will continue with panel discussions, technology exhibitions, and policy sessions focused on practical solutions to maritime challenges.
Delivering his IMDEC address, Ghana’s Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Levinus Bessing, echoed these themes and committed to turning discussions into practical outcomes.
“This year, we aim to move from commitment to implementation,” Rear Admiral Bessing said.
“IMDEC must be a platform where sustainable partnerships and technological resilience take root.”
He welcomed the presence of over 30 nations, 15 chiefs of navies, and more than 40 industry partners, calling it a testament to growing global awareness of Africa’s maritime stakes.
“We are proud to host this gathering of minds and allies,” he said. “Let’s use this opportunity to shape a safer, stronger, and more united maritime future for Africa.
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