In a major move to curb waterborne accidents and formalise Ghana’s local maritime economy, the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has announced plans to recruit and train local Safety Guards to monitor safety standards and ensure compliance across inland waterways. The initiative is part of a broader “resetting agenda” aimed at decentralising maritime safety beyond the traditional hubs of Accra, Tema, and Takoradi to high-risk riverine communities like Ada.

Community-Centered Approach

The Director-General of the GMA, Dr Kamal-Deen Ali (Naval Capt Rtd), emphasised that Ada’s unique geography where the Volta Lake meets the Atlantic Ocean makes it a high priority for maritime safety.

Speaking during a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area, Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III, by the governing board of the GMA, Dr Ali noted that while the GMA is responsible for the safety of every craft on the water, the new agenda focuses on establishing a physical presence in communities that rely on water as a primary means of travel.

“The success of this initiative depends entirely on working closely with traditional and community leaders”, Dr Ali said.

Safety Guard Concept
Dr Ali detailed the Authority’s plan to roll out the “Safety Guard” concept, which involves recruiting and training local community members to serve as wardens on the lakes to ensure passenger safety.

As a self-funded organisation, the GMA, he stressed is focused on establishing satellite offices to fulfill its mandate while simultaneously creating local employment.

These offices, the DG highlighted are expected to enhance the enforcement of safety protocols and provide a direct bridge between the Authority and riverine communities.

Local Support
The Paramount Chief of Ada, Nene Akuaku III, expressed his gratitude for the visit, noting that while many organizations often visited the community, few followed custom by calling on the Traditional Council.

He pledged the traditional council’s support for any GMA initiative aimed at enhancing safe water transport.

District Assembly
In a separate meeting with the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ada East, Jerry John Foreigner Mills-Nkrumah, the Board highlighted vessel licensing and the “Life Jackets for Safety” program as key initiatives designed to reduce waterborne accidents, formalize the local maritime economy, and create sustainable employment for the youth of Ada.

 

Dr Ali further revealed that nearly 90 percent of pleasure boats operating in Ada’s numerous river resorts are currently unregistered. “These vessels are required to be licensed by the GMA to verify ownership, ensure seaworthiness, and guarantee compliance with national safety standards”, Dr Ali emphasised.

The DG called for a strong partnership with the District Assembly to license these boats, noting that regularising operations would provide a financial boost to the Assembly as well.

Life Jacket Intervention

The DCE, Mr Mills-Nkrumah, highlighted the urgent need for intervention through the provision of life jackets for island commuters, citing a tragic boat disaster in 2024.

He appealed to the GMA for support, noting that the District Assembly currently lacks the funds to procure the safety equipment independently.

The DCE also welcomed the proposed satellite office and the Safety Guard concept, noting that they would help address local unemployment and assist the Ghana Navy in curtailing smuggling issues common to the area’s high seas.