Accra, Ghana – Member states of the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC) have pledged to intensify collaboration to safeguard the region’s peace, security, and economic prosperity. The commitment was made during the 6th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Accra on Monday.
Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who currently chairs the GGC, emphasized the interconnectedness of maritime activities in the region, underscoring the need for a unified approach to address emerging threats. “No single nation can effectively combat the growing maritime challenges alone,” President Akufo-Addo stated, calling for strengthened cooperation and information sharing among member states.
The GGC, established to bolster maritime security and regional development, has made strides since its inception in 2015. These achievements include increased engagement with African regional economic communities and the African Union on the 2050 Africa Integrated Maritime Strategy.
However, the President acknowledged persistent challenges such as piracy and environmental degradation. He urged member states to innovate and expand the GGC’s membership to include all 19 coastal states in the region.
Executive Secretary of the GGC, Ing. Jose Mba Abeso, praised Ghana for hosting the summit and highlighted the region’s rich natural resources. He advocated for harnessing the potential of the blue economy to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods. Abeso also called for a revision of the GGC treaty to enhance regional cooperation and maritime governance.
The Gulf of Guinea Commission comprises Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Nigeria, and São Tomé and Príncipe.
