The Authority superintends over the Ghana Maritime Security Act 2004 (Act 675) and continues to implement the provisions of this Act to ensure safety and security within Ghana’s maritime domain. Act 675 also provides the legal framework for the implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code). It requires measures to be put in place to ensure the safety and security of ships and port facilities. Thus, in June 2011 the Authority signed an agreement for the procurement and installation of a Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS) for coastal surveillance of Ghana and Automatic Identification System for the Volta Lake.

The authority advises the government on and facilitates the development and implementation of, effective maritime security policies, strategies, procedures, practices, and statutes. Maritime security legislation is constantly revised and updated to meet the ever-changing maritime security challenges.

We coordinate and also actively participate in the protection of Ghana’s maritime interests from maritime security threats such as piracy, robbery at sea, terrorism, illegal bunkering and other criminal activities.

The Authority is the principal coordinator for maritime domain awareness matters. We function as the lead within inter-agency cooperations in maritime security and operational threat response processes. The mediums for achieving our maritime security goals include the VTMIS, the Authority’s vessels, and the national maritime security committee which is chaired by the Director-General of the Authority, as well as regular active engagements of our maritime security stakeholders.

GMA Vessels

To enhance the safety and security of Ghana’s maritime domain, the Authority has procured six-speed boats and four Search and Rescue vessels. The purchase of the speedboats is in line with the Authority’s quest to achieve synergy with the other law enforcement entities to ward off pirates while thwarting illicit maritime activities along the coast.

The speedboats are fitted with state-of-the-art communication equipment and are renowned for their amazing speed and sturdiness. With these boats, the Authority and the Marine Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service, the Navy, and the Port Authorities conduct night patrols at the Tema and Takoradi Ports anchorages and some national installations to ensure no criminal activity happens there. The Search and Rescue vessels form part of the Authority’s quest to be in readiness in times of disasters and emergencies.

Three of the speedboats have been named after the 1948 Cross-Road shooting heroes; Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, and Private Odartey Lamptey. Some of the vessels were also named after iconic political and traditional figures such as Paa Grant, Nab Ayieta

Azantilow, Nene Azzu Mate Kole II.,and Yaa Asantewaa. Six of the ten speedboats and Search and Rescue vessels are stationed at Tema Port while the rest are in  Takoradi Port.