What is the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA)?
The Ghana Maritime Authority is the statutory agency responsible for monitoring, regulating and coordinating maritime activities in Ghana. Established under the Ghana Maritime Authority Act, 2002 (Act 630), it ensures safety of navigation and protection of the marine environment.
Where is the GMA headquarters located?
The GMA headquarters is located in Accra, Ghana, with regional offices in key coastal areas including Tema, Takoradi, and other strategic locations.
What is the mission of the Ghana Maritime Authority?
The GMA’s mission is to ensure the safety of navigation, protection of the marine environment, and regulation of maritime activities within Ghana’s territorial waters while promoting Ghana as a maritime nation.
Does the GMA offer vessel registration services?
Yes, the GMA provides vessel registration services for ships flying the Ghanaian flag, issuing necessary documentation and ensuring compliance with national and international regulations.
How does the GMA handle maritime safety?
The GMA enforces maritime safety through vessel inspections, certification of seafarers, implementation of safety standards, and conducting regular patrols in Ghanaian waters.
What international conventions does the GMA enforce?
The GMA enforces several international maritime conventions, including SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), MARPOL (Maritime Pollution), STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch keeping), and other IMO (International Maritime Organization) conventions.
How does the GMA monitor compliance with maritime regulations?
Through regular inspections, port state control activities, vessel monitoring systems, and collaboration with other maritime agencies and stakeholders.
How can I obtain seafarer certification in Ghana?
Seafarer certification requires completing approved maritime education and training programs, passing requisite examinations, and meeting international standards as established by the STCW Convention.