Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), has cautioned that Ghana could lose significant port traffic if it fails to adopt greener practices soon.
He made the remarks during a briefing with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Roads and Transportation, which visited the GMA to assess operations.
Dr. Ali emphasized that the global maritime industry is shifting quickly to clean energy. Ships now expect ports to offer green fuel alternatives rather than traditional fossil fuels.
“Whether we like it or not, the transition is happening,” he said. “In the next few years, ships will expect green fuel. If we don’t adapt quickly, fewer vessels will visit our ports.”
He described how much fuel large vessels consume and warned that Ghana’s offshore oil and gas sector will also be affected if the country lags behind.
Dr. Ali called for urgent investments in sustainable port infrastructure, urging the government to act swiftly through the Ministry of Transport and executive bodies.
“If we do not move green as quickly as possible, it will undermine our shipping industry and economy,” he warned.
The parliamentary committee was led by Isaac Adjei Mensah, Chairperson and MP for Wassa East. Other members included Chiwitey Dari Andrew (Vice Chair and MP for Sawla/Tuna/Kalba), Osei Nyarko Kennedy (MP for Akim Swedru), and Ziedeng Anwataazumo Bede (MP for Lawra).
