The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has issued a strong statement rejecting accusations of corruption and sabotage made by anonymous sources against its officials.
Labelling the claims as “false and mischievous,” the GMA maintains that its processes remain transparent and fair.
The allegations, which surfaced on an obscure online platform, assert that the Authority has unjustly revoked the licenses of some Seafarer Recruitment and Placement Services (SRPS) providers and prioritized foreign partners over local ones.
The GMA, however, insists these claims are without basis.
According to the GMA, its mandate to regulate, monitor, and coordinate activities within the maritime industry is carried out strictly in line with the Ghana Maritime Authority Act, 2002 (Act 630) and the Ghana Shipping Act, 2003 (Act 645).
The Authority emphasized that its licensing system for SRPS operators follows an annual review process that thoroughly evaluates compliance with regulatory and operational standards.
In a firm response, the GMA stated, “The Authority does not take action against any SRPS without justification.
All decisions made by the Authority are based on thorough investigations and are in strict accordance with established regulations and international standards.”
The GMA went on to highlight its commitment to both local and international SRPS providers, refuting any notion of bias.
“The Authority emphasises that it does not show favouritism or discriminate against any local or foreign entities,” the GMA said.
It added that its policies are structured to ensure a level playing field, allowing both local and international operators to thrive.
This commitment to transparency, the Authority noted, aligns with international standards, including the International Labour Organisation’s Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC 2006), which Ghana has adopted locally.
The GMA is also a signatory to ILO Convention 188, which addresses work conditions for fishers. The Authority expressed its firm resolve to uphold these global standards, explaining that non-compliant SRPS providers may face sanctions following thorough investigations.
The GMA also called on the public, particularly seafarers and fishers, to report any instances of exploitation, such as unauthorised recruitment fees or deductions from wages as placement costs, which are considered forms of forced labour or human trafficking.
“The GMA is committed to taking decisive action against any individuals or organizations involved in these illegal practices to protect the rights and welfare of all maritime personnel,” the statement read.
Encouraging the public to seek reliable information sources, the GMA warned against spreading unverified claims and reiterated its mission to sustain a safe, efficient, and transparent maritime sector in Ghana.
“We will continue to engage all stakeholders to address concerns and ensure that our actions are transparent, lawful, and fair,” the Authority concluded, reaffirming its dedication to the welfare and development of Ghana’s maritime sector.