The Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah has urged leaders in Africa to ‘speak with a united voice in defence of Africa’s maritime space at the IMDEC 2025.
Hon. Julius Debrah made the bold call during his keynote address, on behalf of the President of Ghana, at the launch of this year’s International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) yesterday at the Barma Hall in Accra.
The IMDEC is an annual event which brings together Navy officers from across the region and around the world to deliberate on matters that concern maritime security.
It was first established in 2019 and has since been a crucial conference which seeks to and has helped to improve stability across Africa’s maritime network.
“It is evident that this conference has matured into a forum strengthening maritime collaborations, particularly among navies and security agencies operating in and around the gulf of guinea.
“Since the inception of IMDEC, we have witnessed notable improvements in coordination, intelligence sharing and joint cooperation readiness which has significantly enhanced maritime security in the region” stated Hon. Debrah.
According to the Chief of Staff, the stability is partly due to commitments made by regional navy commanders who share information to tackle illegal fishing practices, pirate attacks, drug trafficking, and etc.
Hon. Julius Debrah acknowledged the importance of the conference as not just a tall shop, he yet believes that the current trend of geopolitics around the world requires that Africa be united, especially with its maritime space.
“Accordingly, we must endeavour to shape the future of Africa’s maritime security agenda and I believe this unique forum brings together great and fruitful discussions” said the Chief of Staff.
He added “let us also be mindful of the changing global political climate. In an era of shifting alliances, great power competition, and transnational threat, Africa must speak with a unified voice in defence of its maritime interest”.
The two-day conference and exhibition saw local and international companies showcasing modern technological maritime vehicles and personal protective gears for individuals.
‘Securing Africa’s maritime future: collaborations, technology, and sustainability in a changing geopolitical landscape’ is the theme for the 2025 IMDEC.
