In a compelling call for enhanced maritime sovereignty, Ghana’s Minister of the Interior, Henry Quartey, delivered an insightful address at the opening ceremony of the International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024 held in Accra on 3rd September 3, 2024 at that the University of Ghana School of Law Auditorium.
The conference, themed “Emerging Issues in Maritime Boundary Delimitation and Ocean Governance in Africa: Bridging Law, Policy, Science, and Practice,” serves as a vital forum for discussing the intricate challenges faced by African nations in establishing and maintaining clear maritime boundaries.
In a landscape marked by overlapping territorial claims, Minister Quartey articulated the urgent need for clearly defined maritime boundaries to foster peace and security across the continent.
He asserted that ambiguous maritime delimitations have not only led to conflicts but have also hampered effective resource management among neighbouring states.
This lack of clarity poses risks both to national interests and regional stability.
Highlighting Ghana’s proactive stance, the Minister showcased the launch of the National Integrated Maritime Strategy (NIMS) in 2023, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at delineating the country’s maritime boundaries effectively.
Additionally, he announced the construction of a lighthouse at the Land Boundary Terminus Pillar (BP 55) in New Town, Western Region.
This lighthouse is a strategic measure to enhance maritime safety and mark territorial limits, reflecting the commitment of the Ghana Boundary Commission to uphold clear maritime governance.
During his address, Minister Quartey advocated for a holistic and collaborative approach to tackle the emerging issues surrounding maritime delimitation and governance in Africa.
He encouraged all conference attendees to engage actively in discussions that shape the future of the continent’s oceans, emphasizing the collective responsibility shared by all stakeholders.
In her remarks, Hon. Kathleen Quartey Ayensu, Chair of the Conference and a Commissioner at the African Union Commission on International Law, underscored that 39 African countries have coastlines, reinforcing the necessity for ongoing dialogue and collaboration in ocean governance. She stressed the importance of sharing best practices to address the shared challenges these nations face.
Adding to the discourse, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, welcomed participants and expressed the institution’s enthusiasm for its partnership with the Norwegian Centre for Law of the Sea Development Project.
This collaboration aims to promote effective ocean governance and environmental sustainability, aligning with Ghana’s strategic priorities as a coastal nation.
The International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024 serves as a platform to foster dialogue, disseminate knowledge, and propose sustainable solutions to address Africa’s pressing maritime challenges.
By bringing together a diverse group of professionals—including government officials, academics, and international experts—the conference aims to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of maritime boundary issues and inspire collaborative efforts toward effective governance.
credit – www.humanrightsreporters.com
