The Chief of Staff, Mr. Julius Debrah, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to equipping the Ghana Navy with the necessary resources to enhance maritime patrols and safeguard national security.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the 4th International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC 2025) held at Burma Camp, Mr. Debrah emphasized that maritime security remains a central focus of the current administration.
“The safety of our maritime domain is crucial to the future of Ghana’s economy,” he said, stressing the importance of robust naval operations to combat threats such as piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational maritime crimes, especially within the Gulf of Guinea.
Themed “Securing Africa’s Maritime Future: Collaboration, Technology and Sustainability in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape,” IMDEC 2025 brought together stakeholders from across the continent and beyond to discuss collaborative approaches to maritime defence and security.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, highlighted the strategic partnership between the Ministry and the Ghana Navy in tackling illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s support in ensuring compliance with Ghana’s fisheries regulations.
Meanwhile, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, noted that modern surveillance technologies and data-driven operations have been instrumental in identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting maritime offenders. He described IMDEC 2025 as a critical platform for advancing strategic dialogue and operational readiness among African navies.
“This conference enhances regional collaboration and strengthens the tools we need to secure our waters effectively,” Rear Admiral Bessing stated.
The government’s renewed focus on maritime security comes at a time when global attention on Africa’s coastal vulnerabilities is rising, prompting stronger calls for joint operations, investment in naval infrastructure, and integration of emerging maritime technologies.

