Minister for Interior, Henry Quartey has emphasized the need for clear maritime boundaries to ensure peace and security in Africa.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024 on the theme; Emerging Issues in Maritime Boundary Delimitation and Ocean Governance in Africa: Bringing Law, Policy, Science and Practice, the minister noted that the lack of defined maritime boundaries has led to overlapping territorial claims, challenges in resource management, and tensions between neighbouring states.
He highlighted Ghana’s efforts in delimiting its maritime boundaries, including the launch of the National Integrated Maritime Strategy (NIMS) in 2023.
The Minister also mentioned the construction of a lighthouse at the Land Boundary Terminus Pillar (BP 55) in New Town, Western Region, to enhance maritime safety and demarcate territorial boundaries adding that it was an initiative from the Ghana Boundary Commission.
He further called for a holistic and integrated approach to address emerging issues in maritime delimitation and ocean governance in Africa.
The Minister encouraged participants to engage fully in the conference and contribute to the discussion on shaping the future of Africa’s oceans.
Kathleen Quartey Ayensu, Chair of the Conference and Commissioner at the African Union Commission on International Law, disclosed that 39 African countries have a coastline, necessitating the importance of dialogue on ocean governance and collaboration to share best practices.
On her part, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, welcomed participants and expressed her institution’s pleasure in collaborating with the Norwegian Centre for Law of the Sea Development Project. This partnership aims to promote environmental sustainability and effective ocean governance, aligning with Ghana’s interests as a coastal nation.
The conference aims to facilitate dialogue, share knowledge and propose sustainable solutions to address pressing maritime challenges in Africa. It brings together a diverse group of professionals from various fields, including government officials, academics and international experts.
