Navigating the Future: Safeguarding Africa’s maritime boundaries at Ocean Governance Conference 2024

The International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024 commenced with a strong emphasis on the necessity of establishing clear maritime boundaries to ensure peace and security across Africa.

The event, themed “Emerging Issues in Maritime Boundary Delimitation and Ocean Governance in Africa: Bridging Law, Policy, Science, and Practice,” serves as a crucial platform for addressing the complex challenges faced by African nations in defining and maintaining their maritime territories.

Importance of Defined Maritime Boundaries

During the opening ceremony, it was highlighted that ambiguous maritime delimitations have led to overlapping territorial claims, resulting in conflicts and hindering effective resource management among neighbouring states.

The lack of clarity in maritime boundaries poses significant risks to national interests and regional stability.

Ghana’s Pioneering Maritime Initiatives

Ghana’s proactive stance in maritime governance was showcased through the launch of the National Integrated Maritime Strategy (NIMS) in 2023, aimed at effectively delineating the country’s maritime boundaries. Additionally, the construction of a lighthouse at the Land Boundary Terminus Pillar (BP 55) in New Town, Western Region, was announced as a strategic measure to enhance maritime safety and mark territorial limits, reflecting the commitment of the Ghana Boundary Commission to uphold clear maritime governance.

A Collaborative Approach to Maritime Challenges

The conference underscored the need for a holistic and collaborative approach to tackle emerging issues surrounding maritime delimitation and governance in Africa. Participants were encouraged to engage actively in discussions that shape the future of the continent’s oceans, emphasizing the collective responsibility shared by all stakeholders.

In her remarks, Hon. Kathleen Quartey Ayensu, Chair of the Conference and a Commissioner at the African Union Commission on International Law, noted that 39 African countries have coastlines, reinforcing the necessity for ongoing dialogue and collaboration in ocean governance. She stressed the importance of sharing best practices to address the shared challenges these nations face.

Adding to the discourse, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, welcomed participants and expressed the institution’s enthusiasm for its partnership with the Norwegian Centre for Law of the Sea Development Project. This collaboration aims to promote effective ocean governance and environmental sustainability, aligning with Ghana’s strategic priorities as a coastal nation.

Conference Objectives and Participation

The International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024 serves as a platform to foster dialogue, disseminate knowledge, and propose sustainable solutions to address Africa’s pressing maritime challenges. By bringing together a diverse group of professionals—including government officials, academics, and international experts—the conference aims to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of maritime boundary issues and inspire collaborative efforts toward effective governance.

As Africa navigates the complexities of ocean governance, initiatives such as this conference play a crucial role in shaping a future where maritime boundaries are respected and resources managed sustainably, fostering peace and security across the continent.

Source:Joseph Kobla Wemakor