The International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) 2025 has opened in Accra with a renewed call for maritime security and regional cooperation in Africa.
Held under the theme Securing Africa’s Maritime Future, the biennial event at Burma Camp brings together African Navies, Coast Guards, Defence Ministries, and international partners to strengthen coordination against maritime threats.
Delivering a keynote address on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Mr Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff, underscored the strategic importance of maritime security across the continent.
President Mahama cited persistent challenges such as piracy, drug trafficking, and environmental degradation, urging collaborative and innovative responses involving governments, industry leaders, and global organisations.
He highlighted the role of technology—from cybersecurity to surveillance systems—and pledged government support through enhanced assets and resources.
The President emphasised the need to protect marine biodiversity, combat pollution, and pursue industrial development through offshore patrol initiatives.
He called on participants to unite in tackling the complex and evolving threats to Africa’s maritime domain.
Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, Chief of the Naval Staff, described IMDEC as a vital forum for sharing best practices and showcasing modern defence technologies.
“The maritime sector faces multifaceted challenges that demand collaborative solutions and platforms such as IMDEC,” he stated.
The two-day conference, hosted by the Ghana Navy and Great Minds Event Management, aims to chart a forward-looking roadmap, integrating digital technologies to counter threats from rapid digitalisation and sophisticated criminal networks.
The event is expected to significantly contribute to maritime stability in Africa by fostering cooperation, innovation, and sustainability across the region.
Source: GNA
Discover more from Ghana News Express
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.