Accra: Dr Kamal-Deen Ali, Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), has announced that Ghana is intensifying efforts to increase the number of Ghanaian seafarers in the global maritime labour market. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at tapping into the growing international demand for seafarers, thereby creating employment opportunities for the youth in Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Ali shared these insights during a media forum organized by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority. He stated that the initiative has received strong support from President John Dramani Mahama, who is keen on enhancing the country's seafaring sector. Dr Ali emphasized the critical role of maritime transport in the global economy, noting that international trade relies heavily on shipping.
Dr Ali highlighted the various opportunities available within the shipping industry, from ship construction and management to insurance, crewing, and other maritime services. He pointed out that the global seafaring workforce currently stands at about 1.9 million, with an even distribution between officers and ratings. However, he expressed concern over the uneven geographical distribution of seafarers, with a significant majority coming from Asia and Europe, while Africa accounts for only four to five percent.
Despite Ghana's rich maritime history, Dr Ali noted that the country has a relatively low output of seafarers, with only about 5,000 currently registered, placing Ghana fifth in Africa behind countries like Nigeria and Egypt. He attributed this to challenges such as securing 'sea time,' the mandatory training required for professional certification.
To combat this issue, the GMA is actively engaging with international shipping companies to secure sea-time placements for Ghanaian cadets. This new approach has already shown positive results, with placements secured with companies like the Kuwait Oil Tanker Company and a Saudi shipping firm. Dr Ali noted that although initial placements involve only a few cadets, they pave the way for more opportunities as the trainees prove their competence.
Furthermore, cadets undertaking sea-time training receive monthly stipends between 500 to 1,000 US dollars. The GMA is also developing a comprehensive seafarer development program to expand training and placement opportunities for Ghanaian maritime students. Dr Ali expressed optimism that these efforts would significantly increase the number of Ghanaian seafarers globally.
In conclusion, Dr Ali assured that while the Authority is keen on promoting seafarer development, it remains committed to its regulatory mandate. He proudly noted Ghana's recent recognition under the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding as the best-performing country in quality port state control inspections in the West African sub-region.