The Ghana Maritime Authority has held a stakeholder engagement to deliberate on the proposed ratification of the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 2003 (ILO C185).
The Convention 185, established by the International Labour Organization, seeks to provide secure and internationally recognized identification for seafarers, facilitating their movement across borders while enhancing global maritime security.
The engagement brought together key players in Ghana’s maritime industry to discuss the significance of ratifying the convention and its potential implications for the sector.
Delivering his keynote address, the Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Dr. Ali Kamal-Deen, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of the convention to Ghana’s maritime development.
He explained that the ratification process would follow due procedure, beginning with stakeholder consultations before progressing to Cabinet and subsequently Parliament for consideration and approval.
“The ratification of C185 will create more job opportunities for Ghanaians in the industry,” he stated.
Dr. Kamal-Deen further noted that ratifying ILO C185 would expand opportunities for Ghanaian seafarers, enhance maritime security, and align Ghana with international best practices.
Participants at the engagement also examined the operational, legal, and economic implications of the convention, highlighting its potential to boost employment and promote efficiency within the maritime sector.
The stakeholder consultation forms part of broader efforts by the Ghana Maritime Authority to modernize the industry and position Ghana as a competitive hub for maritime activities in the region.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
