The Ghana Maritime Authority is Ghana’s national maritime regulator, established under the Ghana Maritime Authority Act 2002 (Act 630), and operates under the Ministry of Transport. The functions of the Authority are detailed below.
About the Ghana Maritime Authority
Functions of Ghana Maritime Authority
Regulation & Compliance
- Implement the Ghana Shipping Act, 2003 (Act 645)
- Fulfil flag state and port state responsibilities in line with international maritime conventions, instruments and codes
- Pursue the ratification and implementation of international maritime conventions, in conjunction with the appropriate Ministry
- Regulate shipping agents, freight forwarders, and similar service providers
Safety & Operations
- Ensure safety of navigation, including on inland waterways
- Conduct maritime search and rescue operations
- Investigate maritime casualties and take appropriate action
Environment
- Prevent marine pollution from ships and protect the marine environment, in collaboration with relevant agencies
Seafarers
- Plan, monitor, and evaluate seafarer training programs to meet international standards
- Oversee the recruitment and welfare of Ghanaian seafarers
Industry Development & Advisory
- Initiate research into national maritime transport development
- Assess manpower needs of the maritime sector for national planning
- Liaise with government agencies on maritime transport matters
- Initiate action to promote and establish private shipping lines
- Ensure an efficient, cost-effective provision of services in the shipping industry
- Advise the government on maritime infrastructure (ports, harbours) and other maritime matters
