The Authority superintends the Ghana Maritime Security Act 2004 (Act 675) and continues to implement its provisions to ensure safety and security within Ghana’s maritime domain. Act 675 also provides the legal framework for the implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code in Ghana.

The Authority advises the government on maritime security and facilitates the development and implementation of effective policies, strategies, procedures, practices, and statutes. Maritime security legislation is regularly revised to meet evolving challenges.

We coordinate and actively participate in protecting Ghana’s maritime interests from threats such as piracy, robbery at sea, terrorism, illegal bunkering, and other criminal activities.

The Authority is the principal coordinator for maritime domain awareness. We lead inter-agency cooperation in maritime security and operational threat response. The means for achieving our maritime security goals include the VTMIS, the Authority’s vessels, the National Maritime Security Committee — chaired by the Director-General of the Authority — and regular engagement with maritime security stakeholders.

GMA Vessels

To enhance the safety and security of Ghana’s maritime domain, the Authority has procured six speedboats and four Search and Rescue vessels. The speedboats support coordination with other law enforcement agencies to deter piracy and illicit maritime activities along the coast.

The speedboats are equipped with modern communication systems and are noted for their speed and stability. With these boats, the Authority works alongside the Marine Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Navy, and the Port Authorities to conduct night patrols at the Tema and Takoradi Port anchorages and at national installations, deterring criminal activity at these locations. The Search and Rescue vessels strengthen the Authority’s preparedness for disasters and emergencies.

Three of the speedboats are named after the 1948 Cross-Roads shooting heroes — the ex-servicemen whose deaths helped spark Ghana’s independence movement: Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, and Private Odartey Lamptey.

Other vessels are named after iconic political and traditional figures, including Paa Grant, Nab Ayieta Azantilow, Nene Azzu Mate Kole II, and Yaa Asantewaa.

Six of the ten vessels are stationed at Tema Port; the remaining four are at Takoradi Port.