US Coast Guard Commends Tema and Takoradi Ports for Robust Safety Protocols
A delegation from the United States Coast Guard (USCG) has commended the Tema and Takoradi Ports for their robust safety protocols following a three-day assessment of Ghana’s maritime security.
The inspection, conducted in partnership with the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) under the USCG’s International Port Security (IPS) Program, evaluated Ghana’s adherence to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
The exercise assessed physical infrastructure, operational procedures and information-sharing mechanisms across key terminals, including GPHA Terminals One and Two, Meridian Port Services Terminal Three and the Port of Takoradi.
During the exercise, Col. Daniel Atobrah Bondah, Port Security Manager at Tema Port, highlighted the smooth collaboration among the Marine Police, Ghana Navy, Narcotics Control Commission, FDA and port security, which operate under a unified security framework.
Leading the USCG team, Scott Wolland emphasized that the review strengthened long-standing bilateral relations and allowed both countries to exchange best practices.
He suggested strategic enhancements such as security simulations and external audits to test protocols and identify potential vulnerabilities.
Wolland also called for expanded security awareness training for all port staff, with particular focus on cybersecurity, which he described as a growing threat as ports adopt more automated systems.
Mustapha Adamah, Head of Maritime Security, Search and Rescue at the GMA, noted that Ghana’s ports have recorded significant security improvements between 2023 and 2025, following previous audits and recommendations.
The Director General of the GMA, Dr Ali, commended the USCG for their sincere and productive feedback from the evaluation.
He noted that the GMA would immediately begin coordinating with other agencies to develop new drill scenarios and further update the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Platform with the latest security data.
Dr Ali also assured of the GMA’s resolve to continue working to improve security of the country’s maritime domain, which he described as the cornerstone of Ghana’s economic development and the country’s reputation as a leader in international trade within the West-African sub-region.
