Ocean governance is crucial for managing the vast and vital marine resources that sustain ecosystems, economies, and communities. In Ghana, efforts have been underway to strengthen legal and institutional frameworks to ensure sustainable use of ocean resources, in line with international conventions like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
On December 13, 2024, stakeholders gathered at the Mensvic Grand Hotel for the Consultative Forum on Gaps Assessment of the Ocean Governance Study 2023. This crucial event, organized by the University of Ghana School of Law Ocean Governance, Research and Development Project (OGP), brought together experts and industry to identify and address the gaps revealed by the study.
The objectives of the forum were to review the Ocean Governance Study (OGS) and identify gaps in the national institutional mapping, including mandates, actors, and their impact on effective ocean governance. The forum also aimed to examine the legal and institutional framework, assess compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and related instruments, and identify capacity needs. Additionally, the forum sought to develop key elements for a future ocean governance strategy, including vision, principles, frameworks, goals aligned with the SDGs and national priorities, as well as financing and coordination mechanisms.
The forum officially began with the moderator, Oliver Mawuse Barker-Vormawor, inviting all participants to introduce themselves. The attendees included individuals from academia and civil society, representing a wide range of institutions, including the University of Ghana School of Law (UGSoL), Fisheries Commission, Ghana Navy, Forestry Commission, Nature and Development Foundation, Ministry of Environment, Science Technology and Innovation, Ghana Shippers Authority, Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences (UG), Ocean Governance Project, Friends of the Earth, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ghana Boundary Commission, Ghana National Canoe Fisherman Council, Ghana Inland Fisheries Association, Small Pelagic Co-Management Committee and many others.
The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Francis Nunoo, a professor at the Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences with the University of Ghana and a coordinator of the Ocean Governance Project. He warmly greeted the participants, stating, “I’m happy to see all of you here today. Please feel at home, and I encourage everyone to engage in free and open conversation.” He then went on to explain that the purpose of the forum was to discuss the Ocean Governance Study that had been conducted, with a focus on addressing key findings and exploring solutions for effective ocean governance in Ghana.
Following the welcome address, Dr. Godwin Djokoto, the Project Coordinator, provided a recap of the Ocean Governance Study, 2023. He explained that the study focused on assessing Ghana’s ocean governance frameworks, identifying capacity needs, and evaluating compliance with UNCLOS. He mentioned that the study aimed to develop strategies for improving ocean governance, with particular attention to marine fisheries and maritime security. Dr. Dzokoto outlined the methodology used, which involved desktop analysis, administering questionnaires, stakeholder consultations, and synthesizing the results. Updates were regularly provided to DOALOS, with the draft governance framework sent back for further input before final publication.
He shared the challenges faced during consultations, particularly resistance regarding the reliance on maritime expertise. Dr. Dzokoto highlighted the existential threat posed by maritime security and expressed concern about the over-reliance on foreign states for expertise in this area.
Dr. Dzokoto expressed his gratitude to NORAD for their continued support of the Ocean Governance Project and mentioned that two students had the opportunity to study in Norway as part of the project. The next segment was an introduction to the highlights of the gaps assessment in the Ocean Governance Study,2023 presented by Professor Appiagyei Atua. He began by pointing out the absence of a specific definition for ocean governance, which makes it challenging to create a unified framework for addressing ocean-related issues.
He highlighted the inadequate linkage between ocean governance and Sustainable Development Goal 14, particularly Target 14.c, which makes it challenging to create a unified framework for addressing ocean-related issues. He highlighted the inadequate linkage between ocean governance and Sustainable Development Goal 14, particularly Target 14.c, which emphasizes the conservation and sustainable use of oceans through international law. This omission, he noted, limits the alignment of Ghana’s ocean policies with global priorities.
Professor Atua also observed that the study made minimal reference to African Union (AU) and ECOWAS laws, despite these frameworks playing a significant role in regional ocean governance. He stressed the importance of integrating these regional legal instruments into Ghana’s ocean governance strategies. Additionally, he addressed gaps concerning the rights and duties Ghana enjoys within its maritime zones, emphasizing that these are critical for securing the country’s maritime interests and ensuring sustainable resource use.
Another critical gap was the lack of context on how traditional practices contribute to ocean conservation and preservation. He noted that incorporating such indigenous knowledge could enhance efforts to protect marine ecosystems. Professor Atua continued with a discussion on Transnational Organized Crime (TOC), explaining how these criminal activities cut across national borders, involve highly organized actors operating for profit, and often outpace security agencies. He stressed that TOC poses a significant threat to effective ocean governance in Ghana and beyond. The forum transitioned into an interactive session, with participants actively contributing to the discussions during the Q&A segment. This session provided a platform for stakeholders to share their insights and make vital inputs regarding the Ocean Governance Study.
Dr. Kwame Agyekum from the Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences (UG) highlighted the need for a critical analysis of maritime security issues. He emphasized the impact of illegal mining and oil pollution on Ghana’s marine ecosystem and stressed the importance of balancing grey infrastructure, such as ports and pipelines, with green infrastructure to ensure sustainable development.
Jefferson Ocansey brought attention to the dire state of the Sakumono Beach, citing pollution as a significant concern. He pointed the role of maritime security in combating activities like illegal mining (“galamsey”) and preventing other pollutants from degrading marine resources.
The interactive session also saw Cmdr. Paul Odoi Narh from the Ghana Navy contribute valuable insights. He began by referencing a bold statement made by Ghana’s Minister for Aquaculture at an international engagement four months ago, where it was announced that Ghana is in the process of legalizing its first marine protected area. While the announcement was met with applause internationally, Paul pointed out that the reality back home does not yet align with such bold commitments. He emphasized that the Ocean Governance Study provides a timely opportunity to advance conversations on such crucial issues.
Cmdr. Paul Odoi Narh also shared an ongoing conversation regarding the potential integration of technology into traditional fishing practices. He mentioned discussions about transitioning to the use of metal in boat construction alongside wood as a means to conserve resources. While this idea is still in its conversational stage, Paul clarified that it would not entirely replace traditional wooden boats but instead complement them, ensuring that traditional elements remain intact.
Cmdr. Paul Odoi Narh warned that without efforts to conserve resources now, Ghana risks depleting the hardwoods traditionally used in boat wawa. These woods are essential for building durable fishing boats, and their scarcity could jeopardize both traditional practices and livelihoods in the long term. The conversation then shifted to traditional beliefs that hinder women’s participation in the fishing industry. Ernestina Annie highlighted the need to challenge outdated customs, such as restrictions on women boarding vessels, particularly during menstruation. While some participants agreed on the need to break free from such beliefs, others, like Jeffery Ocansey, strongly defended the traditions. Jeffery insisted that certain customs, such as the belief in sea gods rejecting women, should be preserved, as they are integral to the culture of fishing communities.
Jeffery also debated Emmanuel Klubi’s earlier suggestion to regulate how often fishermen go to sea to conserve aquatic resources. He argued that fishing is unpredictable, and prohibiting frequent fishing trips might worsen livelihoods rather than improve conservation efforts. Additionally, he opposed the idea of using metal in boat construction, advocating for preserving purely traditional practices.
In response, Paul explained that technology is not meant to displace fisher folk but to enhance their efficiency and sustainability. He introduced the idea of technological advancements that could make fishing trips more productive. For instance, technology could help fishermen identify optimal fishing spots, reducing the frequency of trips while ensuring good catches. This, he noted, would make it possible to regulate fishing activities without harming livelihoods.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Godwin Djokoto expressed gratitude to all stakeholders present for their active participation and valuable contributions. He provided a brief recap of the discussions, emphasizing new gaps identified during the forum that need to be incorporated into the study to improve its quality and relevance.
He highlighted the strong influence of tradition in fishing and assured participants that technology would not replace these practices but rather complement them. He also noted discussions that stressed the importance of focusing not only on maritime security but also on economic security, recognizing the broader implications for sustainable ocean governance. Dr. Djokoto further pointed the need to institutionalize ocean governance in Ghana and the critical role of research in shaping policies. He encouraged setting a localized research agenda rather than relying solely on frameworks developed in other countries.
Regarding the Ocean Governance Study, he stated that the study has already been published but, with the recent insights, it would need to be revisited and updated. While the revised version may not undergo the full scrutiny of the original process, efforts will be made to integrate these developments and make the updated study accessible for further research. He also invited contributors to submit written copies of any additional insights or overlooked areas, ensuring the study remains comprehensive and serves as a foundation for future work.
In conclusion, the consultative forum provided a platform for key stakeholders to discuss and address critical gaps in the Ocean Governance Study, 2023. Participants from various sectors, including the Ghana Navy, Fisheries Commission, and research institutions, stressed the need for a balanced approach that integrates both traditional practices and modern technological solutions. They also highlighted the importance of local research and the development of context-specific strategies for Ghana. Moving forward, the feedback and insights shared will contribute to a stronger and more effective ocean governance framework for the country.
