The International Conference on Ocean Governance 2024 was held at the University of Ghana School of Law Auditorium from September 3-5, 2024. The conference was graced by notable dignitaries, including the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo; Her Excellency Ambassador Ingrid Mollestad, the Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana; and Hon. Kathleen Quartey Ayensu, Commissioner of the African Union Commission on International Law, who served as the Chairperson of the conference.
The event began with a grand opening ceremony, followed by a series of presentations and discussions under the theme: "Emerging Issues in Maritime Boundary Delimitation and Ocean Governance in Africa: Bridging Law, Policy, Science, and Practice."
In his address, Hon. Henry Quartey, Minister of Interior, emphasised the relevance of the theme, noting that many of Africa's boundary challenges stem from “Scramble for Africa," which resulted in overlapping territorial claims, resource management issues, and tensions between neighboring states. He stated, “Addressing these challenges requires more than acknowledgment. It demands action. We must strengthen and empower boundary commissions through capacity building, acquiring advanced surveying technology, and forming strong international partnerships like the AU and the UN.”
Industry experts and scholars also contributed to the conference, with notable presentations by Professor Philippe Sands, KC FRSL FBA, Professor of Law at University College London, and Major General Emmanuel Kotia, Commissioner General of the Ghana Boundary Commission. Presentations also came from researchers such as Dr. Godwin Djokoto, Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Law, and Dr. Endalew Enyew, Senior Researcher at the Norwegian Centre for the Law of the Sea, Arctic University, Norway.
The conference was divided into sessions, covering key topics such as "Science and Technology in Maritime Boundary Delimitation," "The Practice and Procedures in Effecting Maritime Boundary Delimitation," and "Emerging Issues in Ocean Governance and Blue Economy in Africa." These sessions examined the intersection of science, law, and practice in maritime boundary delimitation, the effects of climate change on these boundaries, and the growing importance of maritime security in West Africa.
At the closing ceremony, Hon. Kathleen Quartey Ayensu expressed her gratitude to all the dignitaries and participants, highlighting the success of the event. She proposed that the conference be held biennially to serve as a guide and reference for ongoing work in ocean governance. Participants echoed their appreciation for the valuable insights gained and eagerly anticipated future conferences.
