Ghana and Canada have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to recognise each other’s seafarers’ certificates, strengthening maritime cooperation between the two countries.
The agreement was concluded at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London. Ghana was represented by Capt. (Rtd.) Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, while Ms. Joanna Manger, Director-General of Marine Safety and Security at Transport Canada, signed on behalf of the Canadian government.
The MoU creates a formal framework for the mutual recognition of certificates of competency issued by the two countries’ maritime administrations. It has been agreed under Regulation I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended.
What the agreement means for Ghanaian seafarers
The arrangement gives qualified Ghanaian seafarers an established route for having their professional qualifications recognised by Canadian maritime authorities. Recognition will remain subject to the relevant certification and endorsement requirements.
The agreement could improve the international competitiveness of Ghanaian maritime professionals and potentially widen their access to employment aboard Canadian-flagged vessels and across the wider maritime industry.
It also includes provisions for cooperation between Ghanaian and Canadian maritime authorities. These cover the verification of certificates, the maintenance of internationally accepted standards in maritime education and training, and compliance with the applicable STCW requirements.
Ghana regards the agreement as an important step in its efforts to expand international employment opportunities for trained and certified maritime professionals. It is also expected to reinforce international confidence in the country’s maritime training and certification system.
The deal strengthens Ghana’s position as a source of skilled maritime human resources while providing a recognised basis for professional mobility between the two countries.
Wider maritime partnership
The signing reflects Ghana and Canada’s shared commitment to maritime safety, the movement of qualified professionals and the development of a competent global seafaring workforce.
It also supports Ghana’s wider effort to build international maritime partnerships, develop skills and create sustainable employment opportunities for its seafarers.
The Ghana High Commission in London welcomed the agreement and commended the Ghana Maritime Authority, Transport Canada and all other stakeholders involved in the discussions that led to its completion.
The Mission said it remained committed to advancing Ghana’s maritime interests through continued diplomatic engagement and strategic international partnerships.
Ghana is continuing to build its role in the global maritime industry, creating new opportunities for its seafarers while deepening cooperation with international partners.
Source: Ghana Maritime Authority
