Ghana reaffirmed its dedication to science-based and inclusive ocean governance during its participation in Ocean Action Panel 2 of the UN Ocean Conference 2025, held this afternoon in Nice, France. The panel session was held under the theme:
“Increasing Ocean-Related Scientific Cooperation, Knowledge, Capacity Building, Marine Technology, and Education to Strengthen the Science-Policy Interface for Ocean Health.”
Ghana’s delegation to the panel featured two distinguished representatives:
Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice Chancellor of the University of Energy and Natural Resources
Mr. Fred Antwi-Boadu, Blue Economy Consultant
Delivering Ghana’s official remarks, the delegation emphasized that science, technology, and education are central to achieving ocean sustainability, building coastal resilience, and empowering local communities.
Ghana’s Strategic Interventions:
Ghana used the opportunity to share its progress and ongoing initiatives aimed at deepening the science-policy interface in ocean governance. Key highlights included:
Strengthening regional scientific collaboration through platforms such as the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC), ECOWAS, and the Abidjan Convention.
Expanding marine science education and training through the University of Ghana, the Regional Maritime University, and other higher institutions.
Capacity building for fisheries observers and inspectors, supported by development partners, to enhance ocean monitoring and compliance.
Adopting marine technology tools such as Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS), Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), and onboard cameras to improve surveillance and reduce Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Piloting Electronic Monitoring Systems (EMS) for real-time tracking of vessel activities at sea, enhancing transparency and enforcement.
A Call to Global Action:
Ghana’s statement also called on the international community to:
Increase investment in marine science infrastructure, innovation, and technology transfer to support developing countries;
Promote inclusive marine research, with a focus on empowering women, youth, and coastal communities;
Advance South-South and North-South cooperation in areas such as deep-sea research, coastal erosion control, and fisheries development;
Uphold international commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
The Path Forward
“Ghana believes that inclusive, science-driven ocean governance is essential to restoring marine ecosystems and securing the well-being of future generations,” the delegation affirmed.
By actively participating in this high-level panel, Ghana reinforced its leadership role in the global movement toward sustainable and equitable ocean management, rooted in evidence, innovation, and international solidarity.
