Ghana and Canada sign landmark agreement on mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates

Ghana and Canada have taken a significant step towards strengthening bilateral maritime cooperation following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London.

The agreement was signed on behalf of Ghana by Capt. (Rtd.) Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, while Ms. Joanna Manger, Director-General of Marine Safety and Security at Transport Canada, represented the Government of Canada.

The agreement establishes a framework for the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates of competency issued by the respective maritime administrations, in accordance with Regulation I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended.

The arrangement is expected to create an established pathway for qualified Ghanaian seafarers to have their professional qualifications recognised by Canadian maritime authorities, subject to applicable certification and endorsement requirements.

The development could expand employment opportunities for Ghanaian maritime professionals aboard Canadian-flagged vessels and within the wider international maritime industry, while enhancing their competitiveness in the global labour market.

The MoU also provides for cooperation between the two maritime administrations in verifying the authenticity of certificates, maintaining internationally accepted standards of maritime education and training, and ensuring compliance with relevant STCW requirements.

The agreement further reinforces international confidence in Ghana’s maritime training and certification framework and strengthens the country’s position as a source of skilled maritime professionals.

The signing underscores the growing maritime partnership between Ghana and Canada and reflects the shared commitment of both countries to promoting maritime safety, professional mobility and the development of a competent global seafaring workforce.

The Ghana High Commission in London has welcomed the agreement and commended the Ghana Maritime Authority, Transport Canada and other stakeholders whose engagements and cooperation contributed to its successful conclusion.

The Mission reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Ghana’s maritime interests through sustained diplomatic engagement and strategic international partnerships.