The Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Dr. Ali Kamal-Deen, has described the ratification of the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 2003 (ILO C185) as a critical step for Ghana’s maritime sector.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement at La Palm Royal Beach, he emphasized the urgency of not only ratifying the convention but ensuring its smooth implementation.
“It is a defining moment. C185 needs to be ratified and implemented in a seamless manner,” he stated.
Dr. Kamal-Deen noted that delays in ratifying the convention have already cost Ghana billions of dollars in lost opportunities, stressing the need for immediate action to position the country competitively within the global maritime industry.
The Convention, established by the International Labour Organization, provides secure and internationally recognized identification for seafarers, facilitating their movement while enhancing maritime security.
He further explained that the ratification process will go through stakeholder consultations, Cabinet, and Parliament before final approval, urging all relevant actors to support the process.
According to him, swift ratification and implementation will expand job opportunities for Ghanaian seafarers, boost economic activity, and align Ghana with international maritime standards.
The stakeholder engagement forms part of efforts by the Ghana Maritime Authority to strengthen the country’s maritime framework and enhance its role in the global shipping industry.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
