The Centre for International Maritime Affairs, Ghana (CIMAG) has commended Parliament, the Government of Ghana and key maritime stakeholders following the passage of the Maritime and Other Offences Act, describing it as a major milestone in strengthening the country’s maritime security and legal framework.

The Act domesticates key provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), providing Ghana with a comprehensive legal regime to prosecute piracy, armed robbery at sea, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes committed within the country’s maritime zones.

In a statement, CIMAG said the legislation represents the culmination of years of advocacy by the organization alongside civil society groups, maritime industry players, security agencies and Parliament for a modern legal framework aligned with international maritime law.

According to the maritime policy think tank, the new law will significantly enhance Ghana’s ability to investigate and prosecute maritime offences while bringing the country’s legal framework into conformity with global standards under UNCLOS.

CIMAG noted that the legislation would also boost investor confidence by demonstrating Ghana’s commitment to a rules-based maritime environment, making the country a more attractive destination for shipping companies, port investors and international maritime partners.

The organization further stated that the Act would strengthen the protection of Ghanaian seafarers, fisherfolk and the country’s marine resources by providing stronger legal mechanisms to combat criminal activities at sea and safeguard the marine environment.

Executive Director of CIMAG, Albert Derrick Fiatui, described the passage of the law as a significant response to years of sustained advocacy by the organization and other stakeholders.

“Today, Ghana has answered a call CIMAG and other stakeholders have made for years. We commend government, Parliament, the Ghana Maritime Authority, the Ghana Navy, the Attorney-General’s Department and all partners who listened and acted,” he said.

Mr. Fiatui, however, stressed that the effectiveness of the new legislation would depend on its implementation.

“Legislation alone is not enough. We now urge robust enforcement, inter-agency training and coordination so this law delivers safer seas and a stronger blue economy,” he added.

CIMAG reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the implementation of the Act through technical advocacy, policy briefs and capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening Ghana’s maritime governance framework.

The passage of the Maritime and Other Offences Act is expected to reinforce Ghana’s efforts to combat maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea while enhancing the country’s compliance with international maritime obligations and promoting a safer environment for maritime trade and investment.

By Samuel Asamoah