President Akufo-Addo has presented five boats to the Ghana Navy Fleet, including two 27-meter vessels designated for patrolling the country’s maritime borders to the East and West.
In addition, he commissioned an oil spill response vessel for the Ghana Maritime Authority, marking the second time he has bolstered the Navy’s capabilities through such contributions. These vessels are critical for protecting Ghana’s maritime sovereignty and ensuring the prevention of criminal activities in contested areas.
President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the significant partnership between Ghana and the United States, emphasizing the United States’ support for Ghana’s military revitalization program.
He noted the ongoing efforts to elevate the Navy’s Special Boat Squadron to a tier-one Special Operations Force by 2026 under the United States, Denmark, and Ghana Trilateral Agreement.
Moreover, he commended the collaborative efforts of various agencies and private actors, including the Navy and the Ghana Maritime Authority, in operating the new flex-fighter for oil spill response.
The President expressed hope that such collaborations would contribute to the development of Ghana’s shipbuilding industry and offer employment opportunities for the country’s youth while reducing the environmental impact of traditional wooden canoes used for fishing.
As President Akufo-Addo concluded, he emphasized the importance of collective efforts to safeguard Ghana’s maritime frontiers and protect its interests.
The newly commissioned vessels represent Ghana’s unwavering resolve to maintain maritime sovereignty and security, and he expressed confidence that the dedicated crews would uphold the high standards and professionalism synonymous with the Ghana Navy.
The President also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families of servicemen and women who contribute to the nation’s maritime security and prosperity.
“We are grateful for the benevolence of the government and people of the United States. The United States has supported Ghana’s military revitalization programme through capacity building and enhancement of our capabilities, with the support of the Navy’s Special Boat Squadron and other initiatives with the Army and Air Force.”
“The current 5-year United States, Denmark and Ghana Trilateral Agreement is set to make the Navy’s Special Boat Squadron a tier-one Special Operations Force by 2026. The donation of these two 12-metre Defender Class Boats would greatly enhance the operations of the Navy in dealing with sophisticated operations when the need arises. It is refreshing to see the Navy serving as a glue that is cementing international and local partnerships towards securing our interests at sea,” President Akufo-Addo said.
