Last week, SEACOP delivered a successful training course aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Joint Maritime Control Unit (JMCU) of Tema.
Including both classroom theoretical modules and practical modules conducted onboard vessels, the comprehensive training programme took place from September 4th to 8th in Tema port. It brought together 12 dedicated JMCU officers.
🛳 Background: In April of this year, SEACOP conducted an expert evaluation mission in Ghana, specifically at the JMCU facilities in Tema and Takoradi. During this assessment, it was identified that the JMCU in Tema was facing operational challenges due to a shortage of staff and the need for proper training in vessel rummaging techniques. We are very pleased to share that the Director-General of Narcotics, in collaboration with SEACOP, has taken proactive steps to address these challenges. The decision was made to increase the JMCU Tema staff and provide them with the necessary training. SEACOP’s commitment to this cause was reinforced by two local certified trainers, Gabriel Ato Annan and Francisca Ziniel, who were trained in Barbados during the Training of Trainers (ToT) session in February-March 2023. In his closing remarks, SEACOP Deputy Regional Coordinator for Africa Akizi-Egnim AKALA expressed his satisfaction with the success of this training. He highlighted the significance of local trainers conducting vessel rummage training, emphasising that it reflects a strong national commitment to this vital endeavor. Furthermore, this achievement ensures the sustainability of SEACOP’s legacy in the region.
SEACOP’s Impact in Ghana: This training session marks the fourth successful vessel rummaging training delivered for Ghana’s JMCU as part of SEACOP V implementation. Ghana has also benefited from other valuable training initiatives, including Maritime Intelligence and Ethics and Integrity training, as well as ToT for two officers and the delivery of rummaging equipment during this fifth phase of the project.
The training was expertly led by our two local certified trainers, Gabriel Ato Annan and Francisca Ziniel, B.Sc, MA.
