Ghana Recognized as Seafarer-Friendly Port by International Bodies – GMA

Accra: Mr Awudu Enusah, Principal Maritime Administrative Officer at the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), has disclosed that Ghana is one of the seafarer-friendly ports. Mr Enusah stated that Ghana has even been recognized as a seafarer port by some international bodies. He made these comments during a media forum organized by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) on the topic 'Building A Safer Sea Experience Through Harassment-Free Ships'.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Enusah highlighted that when seafarers experience distress at sea, especially within the Gulf of Guinea area, Ghana is often their destination of choice due to the country's receptive nature. He mentioned that the mandate under the Ghana Maritime Authority Regulation LI 2226 ensures that seafarers calling at Ghana's ports are comfortable, emphasizing the role of port safe controllers in ensuring the well-being of seafarers.He urged seafarers to familiarize themselves with regulations and laws governing their work, noting that th e International Labour Organisation (ILO) ensures that anything related to worker welfare is publicly accessible. Mr Enusah touched upon the issue of harassment and bullying among seafarers, stating that cultural differences often lead to misunderstandings. He mentioned that the Maritime Labour Convention has incorporated guidelines on harassment and bullying, with significant attention given to these issues in the industry.Mr Enusah indicated that the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the ILO's joint tripartite working group aim to make these guidelines part of enforceable laws by maritime administrations. He emphasized the importance of sensitizing seafarers to understand what constitutes harassment and bullying, stating that both perpetrators and victims are often unaware of their actions. He advocated for awareness so that seafarers can protect themselves and others from such misconduct.