Ghana Shippers Authority call for revision of Maritime Law to tackle Port challenges
The Ghana Shippers Authority is advocating for a comprehensive revision of the maritime law to effectively regulate activities at the country’s ports. The Chief Executive of the Authority, Benonita Bismarck, emphasized the necessity of this revision to address critical setbacks, particularly the escalating issue of piracy attacks.
Speaking at the 14th Maritime Law Seminar for selected justices of the High Court, Bismarck underscored the importance of ensuring security in the maritime domain. The seminar served as a platform to discuss strategies for enhancing security measures in Ghana’s waters.
Recent reports indicate that there were 84 recorded piracy attacks on ships in the Gulf of Guinea in 2020, highlighting the severity of the issue. In light of these challenges, Bismarck emphasized the need to revise the Maritime law to effectively address emerging problems and regulate port activities.
She emphasized the limitations of using outdated legislation to tackle present-day issues, stating, “It is difficult to use a law that doesn’t contain all the provisions needed to address current issues. At the time, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea was unknown. As an administrator of justice, you need to apply the law, but if it is not there, how can you give what you don’t have?”
The Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, further emphasized the significance of a stronger maritime law as the country anticipates increased port activities due to the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). With the expected surge in trade, the need for a robust legal framework becomes crucial to address the associated challenges effectively.
The call for revising the maritime law reflects the commitment of Ghana’s authorities to ensure the safety and efficiency of maritime operations. By enacting comprehensive regulations, Ghana aims to foster a secure environment for trade and strengthen its position as a key player in the regional maritime industry.
