With its commitment to ensuring maritime safety and continuous compliance with implementation of International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has organized a capacity building workshop to sensitize industry players on self-auditing.
The ISPC code was developed by the IMO to provide a system for securing maritime terminals. Self-auditing is recognized as a requirement to keep Ghana’s maritime security at high standard to ensuring the safety of the ports.
It is estimated that over90 percent of the world’s trade is carried by sea, which is been proven to be by far the most cost-efficient way to move goods and raw materials around the world.
The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) supervises the Ghana Maritime Security Act, 2004 (Act 675) which safeguards the security and safety of ships and ports facilities. The act implements the ISPS code.
Ghana’s ports have in recent times undergone some major expansion works and the existence of a secure environment for maritime business activities is crucial for the good performance of the economy.
In the second quarter of 2019, the US$ 1.5 billion container terminal facility, which is part of phase one of the Tema Port expansion project is expected to be completed.
It was as a result of these pro-safety measures, a four-day regional workshop was held in Tema with the aim of encouraging self-auditing in addressing and maintaining security at the ports to ensure safety standards
Addressing participants and stakeholders, the IMO Regional Coordinator for West and Central Africa, Mr.Dallas Laryea said based on the important role the maritime industry plays in the economy of every country, there is the need to ensure utmost security in combating maritime threats.
“Trade permeates all economies, its security is equally essential”, he said.
The Deputy Minister of Transport, Daniel Nii Titus Glover stressed the essence of the workshop, adding,that with the growing threats of maritime crime, the activity would enable beneficiaries in the industry to be better prepared in managing and tackling maritime insecurity in case of any eventuality.
The event brought together people from the Ghana Navy, GMA, National Security, Ghana Police and Interpol.
By Dundas Whigham
