The Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has called for the effective implementation of maritime policies to translate Ghana’s strategic position and maritime resources into greater economic value, job opportunities and sustainable development.
Speaking at the commemoration of World Maritime Day 2026 at the Ghana Maritime Authority, under the theme “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence,” the Minister said Ghana’s maritime sector remains a critical pillar of the economy, facilitating international trade, supporting industry and agriculture, creating employment and strengthening regional economic integration.
He stressed that the country’s focus should no longer be on developing the maritime sector only, but also on how effectively policies can be translated into practical outcomes for the benefit of Ghanaians.
Hon. Bukari Nikpe mentioned a number of interventions being pursued by Government through the Ministry and its agencies to position Ghana as a leading maritime hub in West Africa. These include the expansion of Tema Port, the implementation of 24-hour port operations and efforts to transform the Takoradi Port into a stronger oil and gas service and cargo hub, alongside investments to strengthen ship repair and offshore services.
He noted that infrastructure alone would not make Ghana a maritime hub, stressing that effective policies and regulations, strong institutions, adequate resources and skilled personnel must work together to deliver measurable results.
He welcomed the Ghana Maritime Authority’s “From Policy to Practice Roadmap” under the 2026 and 2027 World Maritime Day Programme, describing it as an opportunity to identify implementation gaps, establish timelines and develop sustainable indicators for measuring progress.
The Minister also called for closer examination of the implementation of maritime regulations, institutional collaboration, protection of seafarers and fishing communities, prevention of marine pollution and increased digitisation of Ghana’s ports. He further stressed the need for the country to derive the full economic value from its maritime resources, particularly in creating opportunities for the growing number of young people seeking employment.
Reaffirming Government’s commitment to the sector, Hon. Bukari Nikpe said efforts were being made to support the Ghana Maritime Authority in establishing hydrographic capacity in Ghana to produce its own navigational maps and charts, which he said would support navigation while creating additional employment opportunities.
He also highlighted planned investments in port expansion to improve port access and rail connectivity to facilitate the efficient and timely movement of cargo.
The Minister urged maritime stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, coordination and support in moving policies from the planning stage to practical implementation. He expressed the hope that a more integrated maritime sector would enable Ghana to maximise the benefits of its strategic location, create jobs and contribute to economic transformation in Ghana and Africa as a whole.
