GMA Director-General Asserts Commitment to Safeguarding Maritime Domain

The Director‑General of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), Dr Kamal‑Deen Ali, has asserted the collective commitment to protecting Ghana’s maritime domain, safeguarding the marine environment, ensuring the sustainability of the oil and gas industry, and securing offshore economic assets.

At the Western Naval Command in Takoradi on Friday, Dr Ali described the completion of training for the joint GMA–Navy crew of the MV Esther Ocloo as a milestone in operational readiness.

He warned that offshore incidents can quickly escalate into environmental, economic, and security crises, stressing the need for continuous maritime presence and integrated response.

The Director-General expressed gratitude to the Ghana Navy and the Chief of Naval Staff for their collaboration, assuring stakeholders that the Authority will provide logistics for effective deployment and maintenance.

While the vessel enhances national capability, he noted, it complements rather than replaces industry responsibilities, calling for cooperation with agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency, Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority, Ghana National Gas Company, and the Petroleum Commission.

Lead in charge of Asset Protection at Tullow Ghana, Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Gura (Rtd), praised the deployment as a major achievement for maritime safety, security, and environmental management, urging continued collaboration to curb canoe incursions into offshore operational zones.

On his part, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Commodore Stephen Billins Nyam, said the 10‑day exercise was important in eliminating operational obstacles.

He noted that long‑term success will depend on regular maintenance, crew competence, and adherence to established protocols, commending the synergy between the GMA and Navy.

Margaret Adjeley Sowah, ISD