The Ghana Maritime Authority has intensified calls for the swift ratification of the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 2003 (ILO C185), warning that delays have already cost the country billions of dollars in lost opportunities.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement, the Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Dr. Ali Kamal-Deen, stressed the urgent need to expedite the ratification process to unlock the full potential of Ghana’s maritime sector.
“The delay in ratifying C185 has cost Ghana billions of dollars. There is an urgent need to fast-track the process to enable us to fully benefit from the opportunities within the maritime industry,” he stated.
The Convention, established by the International Labour Organization, provides secure and internationally recognized identification for seafarers, facilitating their movement while enhancing global maritime security.
Dr. Kamal-Deen explained that ratifying the convention would significantly expand employment opportunities for Ghanaian seafarers and boost economic activities within the sector.
He further outlined that the ratification process will involve stakeholder consultations, after which it will be submitted to Cabinet and subsequently Parliament for approval.
Participants at the engagement echoed the need for urgency, noting that Ghana risks losing its competitive edge in the global maritime industry if the process is further delayed.
The Ghana Maritime Authority says it remains committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the timely ratification of the convention and to position Ghana as a key player in the international maritime space.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
