In a powerful address at the opening ceremony of the International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024, Ghana’s Minister of the Interior, Hon. Henry Quartey, highlighted the critical importance of establishing clear maritime boundaries to foster peace and security across Africa.
The event, held under the theme “Emerging Issues in Maritime Boundary Delimitation and Ocean Governance in Africa: Bringing Law, Policy, Science and Practice,” underscored the urgency of addressing the complex and often contentious issue of maritime boundary delimitation on the continent.
“Without clearly delineated maritime boundaries, we risk continuous conflicts over marine resources, which could spiral into larger disputes.
“This is why it is imperative for African nations to prioritize the establishment of clear and mutually agreed-upon maritime boundaries.”
Hon. Henry Quartey, Minister of the Interior
This situation, he noted, threatens not only regional stability but also the economic development prospects of the affected nations.
Ghana, as a coastal nation with significant maritime interests, has been proactive in addressing these challenges. Minister Quartey highlighted the country’s recent efforts, particularly the launch of the National Integrated Maritime Strategy (NIMS) in 2023.
This comprehensive strategy aims to enhance the country’s maritime security, ensure the sustainable use of marine resources, and strengthen governance frameworks.
One of the key initiatives under NIMS is the construction of a lighthouse at the Land Boundary Terminus Pillar (BP 55) in New Town, Western Region.
“The lighthouse at New Town is a symbol of our commitment to safeguarding our maritime boundaries and ensuring that our territorial waters are clearly defined.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote peace and security in our maritime domain.”
Hon. Henry Quartey, Minister of the Interior
The project, spearheaded by the Ghana Boundary Commission, is a significant step in demarcating the nation’s maritime borders and ensuring maritime safety.
A Call for a Holistic and Integrated Approach
Minister Quartey called on African nations to adopt a holistic and integrated approach to maritime boundary delimitation and ocean governance.
“The challenges we face are not insurmountable, but they require a collective effort. We must work together, share knowledge, and develop policies that reflect our shared interests and common goals.”
Hon. Henry Quartey, Minister of the Interior
The conference, which attracted a diverse group of professionals, including government officials, academics, and international experts, provided a platform for dialogue on these pressing issues.
Hon. Kathleen Quartey Ayensu, Chair of the Conference and Commissioner at the African Union Commission on International Law, emphasized the significance of such discussions, particularly given that 39 African countries have coastlines, making ocean governance a critical issue for the continent.
“African nations must engage in continuous dialogue on ocean governance. By sharing best practices and collaborating on common challenges, we can develop effective strategies that benefit all coastal nations.”
Hon. Kathleen Quartey Ayensu, Chair of the Conference and Commissioner at the African Union Commission on International Law
Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, also addressed the conference, expressing her institution’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability and effective ocean governance.
The University of Ghana has partnered with the Norwegian Centre for Law of the Sea Development Project, a collaboration that aligns with the nation’s interests in ensuring the responsible use of its maritime resources.
The International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024 aims to not only facilitate dialogue but also to generate actionable solutions to the challenges of maritime boundary delimitation and ocean governance in Africa.
By bringing together experts from various fields, the conference seeks to bridge the gap between law, policy, science, and practice, ensuring that the outcomes are both practical and sustainable.
Minister Quartey’s call for clear maritime boundaries and a collaborative approach to ocean governance sets the tone for these discussions, highlighting the need for African nations to work together to secure their maritime interests and promote regional peace and stability.
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