At the 4th International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC), President John Dramani Mahama—represented by the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah— reaffirmed government of Ghana’s commitment to regional maritime security, economic resilience, and international cooperation.
The President’s speech, delivered at Burma Camp on July 2, 2025, resonated with purpose and hope, laying out a bold and forward-thinking agenda for Ghana’s maritime future.
Addressing security chiefs, diplomatic partners, and industry stakeholders from across the globe, Mahama’s message was clear: Ghana is ready to lead a new era of maritime security, innovation, and prosperity.
“The blue economy is our next frontier,” the speech declared. “It is time to match our aspirations with investments in technology, collaboration, and human capacity development.”
President Mahama’s vision, which includes safeguarding Ghana’s coastline also aims at unlocking the full economic potential of West Africa’s maritime domain—from oil and gas infrastructure to fishing, port modernization, and regional trade corridors.
He emphasized that maritime security is essential not only for protecting national assets but for advancing the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the region’s industrial transformation.
Mr. Debrah, who read the statement on behalf of the President, noted that Ghana would deepen cooperation with its neighbours and international allies to combat piracy, illicit trafficking, and environmental degradation in the Gulf of Guinea.
“We must adopt a shared security approach—no country can protect its maritime space in isolation,” he said. “Ghana under President Mahama’s leadership will build on smart partnerships with ECOWAS, the African Union, and global powers to protect our common waters and promote peace.”
The speech also outlined Ghana’s plan to enhance the capabilities of the Ghana Navy and allied agencies by investing in cutting-edge surveillance, joint training, and research facilities.
The statement reinforced the government’s legacy as a pan-African statesman who believes in sustainable security, inclusive development, and technological innovation.
The President called on stakeholders present—both public and private—to support Ghana’s blueprint for the future. He reiterated that Ghana remains open for strategic investment and joint ventures in maritime logistics, shipbuilding, port infrastructure, and coastal tourism.
As the IMDEC 2025 conference continues, Ghana’s role as a beacon of stability and innovation in West Africa has once again taken center stage.
“Our waters hold the promise of economic empowerment,” President Mahama concluded. “Let us secure it. Let us protect it. And let us build a future upon it.”
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