The 2025 edition of the International Maritime Defence Conference (IMEC) officially opened on Tuesday at Burma Camp in Accra, with the Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Julius Debrah, delivering the keynote address on behalf of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces.

Mr. Debrah, who represented President John Mahama, emphasised the strategic importance of maritime security to Ghana’s national and regional stability.

He commended the Ghana Armed Forces and stakeholders in the maritime sector for their collaborative efforts in safeguarding the country’s territorial waters and maritime interests.

The Chief of Staff was received at the event by Mr. Ernest Brogya Genfi, who represented the Minister of Defence.

The presence of senior military officers, diplomatic representatives, and security experts underscored the conference’s growing relevance in the sub-region.

Also addressing the opening session was the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Madam Emelia Arthur.

She highlighted the critical nexus between maritime defence and the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries resources.

Ms. Arthur called for increased investment in maritime surveillance and regional cooperation to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.