The Ghana Navy has enhanced the capabilities of its personnel in boat operations and maritime response through a specialised training programme, funded by the European Union Support to West Africa Integrated Maritime Security (EU SWAIMS) Programme.  

The initiative, conducted by the Portuguese Navy under the EU SWAIMS framework, formed part of efforts to strengthen maritime security capacity and improve operational preparedness within the Ghana Navy.  

The development came to light when the General Coordinator of the EU SWAIMS Programme, Commodore Antonio Neves Rodrigues, visited the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) Headquarters at Nutekpor in the Volta Region ahead of the closing ceremony of the Ghana Navy Boat Operators Training Course.  

The engagement provided an opportunity for officials from the EU SWAIMS Programme and NAVTRAC to assess the progress of the training and explore avenues for deepening cooperation in maritime security training and capacity development.  

Commodore Rodrigues said building the capacity of maritime security institutions remained critical in addressing emerging threats within the Gulf of Guinea.  

He commended the Ghana Navy for its commitment to professional development and the effective implementation of the programme, noting that international partnerships continued to play a significant role in enhancing regional maritime safety and security.  

He reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote operational readiness, regional cooperation, and the creation of safer maritime spaces.  

The Flag Officer Commanding NAVTRAC, Commodore James Adongo Agambire, expressed appreciation to the European Union, EU SWAIMS Programme and the Portuguese Navy for their support towards strengthening Ghana’s maritime training capacity.  

He said the collaboration had contributed significantly to improving the competence of Ghana Navy personnel and enhancing the Command’s ability to deliver specialised training.  

Commodore Agambire said NAVTRAC would continue to ensure that skills acquired through such partnerships were translated into improved operational effectiveness in protecting Ghana’s maritime domain.  

The EU SWAIMS Programme is aimed at supporting West African countries to improve maritime security cooperation, strengthen institutional capacities and address challenges including illegal activities at sea.  

The engagement ended with an exchange of souvenirs and a renewed commitment by both parties to sustain cooperation towards maritime stability and security in the Gulf of Guinea.