Ghana strengthens fight against sea crimes with major Maritime Offences Bill

Ghana has taken steps to bolster its legal framework against maritime crimes, approving the Maritime and Related Offences Bill, 2026. This legislation aims to enhance prevention, investigation, prosecution, and punishment of piracy, armed robbery at sea, trafficking, and other maritime offenses, aligning with international conventions such as UNCLOS and the 1988 Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against the Safety of Maritime Navigation.

The Ghana Maritime Authority, in partnership with the UNODC and EU, is engaging key stakeholders through a two-day workshop to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the bill.

The workshop, held in Accra, brought together representatives from various government agencies, including the Ministry of Transport, GMA, Ghana Navy, Ghana Air Force, Marine Police, and the Attorney-General’s Department. Mr. William Kartey, Chief Director of the Ministry of Transport, emphasized the need for a legal structure aligned with international maritime laws to establish Ghana as a regional maritime hub.

Mr. Mubarick Masawudu, Deputy Director-General of the GMA, highlighted the growing threat of maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea, stressing the importance of a robust legal framework for effective law enforcement and prosecutions.

The EU, through the Safe Seas for Africa project, is supporting the implementation of the bill, aiming to strengthen maritime law enforcement agencies' capacity to combat piracy, drug trafficking, and other maritime crimes. Prof. Martha Chantel Ribero, representing UNODC, noted the significance of these efforts in enhancing the rule of law and addressing maritime security challenges.

The workshop sought to clarify legal gaps, deepen understanding of the international legal frameworks, and foster coordination among agencies involved in maritime security and justice in Ghana.