Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire are set to conduct their seventh joint inspection of their common maritime boundary on August 22, 2026. The inspection aims to deepen operational cooperation and strengthen security within their shared maritime space.
Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire Strengthen Maritime Security Ties
The inspection, which commenced in 2023, is expected to serve as a confidence-building measure between the two countries and strengthen coordination in the management and security of their common maritime area. Major General Anthony Ntem, Commissioner General of the Ghana Boundary Commission, said the exercise had gained added significance following the 2017 ruling by the Special Chamber of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), which provided a definitive legal settlement of the maritime boundary between the two countries.
Major Gen. Ntem stated that the ruling had provided a solid foundation for renewed cooperation between Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. He made these remarks at the Final Planning Conference for the Western Maritime Boundary Inspection, hosted by the ECOWAS Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone F.
Illegal Fishing and Piracy Confront Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire
Captain Daniel Gnamien Ehu, Director of the MMCC Zone F, highlighted the challenges confronting the two coastal countries. He identified illegal fishing, piracy, illicit trafficking, and protection of the marine environment as some of the key issues. Captain Ehu emphasized that the boundary inspection should serve as a practical demonstration of the two countries' determination to translate their geographical proximity into a concrete operational alliance.
Captain Ehu commended the Ghanaian and Ivorian delegations for their cooperation and professionalism. He expressed confidence that the discussions would be guided by the interests of both countries. The two countries share not only a geographical boundary but also common economic opportunities and maritime security challenges.
Upcoming Inspection and Future Plans
The inspection is expected to address all outstanding operational, technical, logistical, and security arrangements before the inspection. The conference will also establish a common understanding of the respective responsibilities of participating institutions. Captain Ehu proposed that Côte d'Ivoire host the Final Planning Conference for the 2027 inspection in Abidjan, with a formal communication expected to be sent subsequently.
The joint inspection by Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire demonstrates their commitment to strengthening maritime security and cooperation in the region. This initiative has the potential to positively impact the lives of people living in the coastal areas of both countries, who rely heavily on the marine environment for their livelihoods.
Source: Joy Online
