Ghana is investing in maritime security to support its growing blue economy and protect maritime resources.
In early 2025, Ghana commissioned a forward operating base (FOB) in Ezinlibo, in the western region, and received a Japanese-made ship, the 65-meter GNS Achimota, at the Sekondi Naval Base. The Ezinlibo FOB is now the country’s largest naval station and is expected to provide logistical support and personnel accommodation while supporting the Ghana Navy’s efforts to combat illegal fishing, piracy and other security threats in the Gulf of Guinea.
The Ezinlibo base joins a network of FOBs across the country, including those at Bui, Kenyase and Sankore. New ones are planned for Ada, Elmina, Keta and Winneba.
The GNS Achimota is the country’s largest naval vessel. Then-Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo said these assets will help promote regional peace and stability.
“GNS Achimota stands as a powerful symbol of how far our Navy has come in its 65 years of service,” Akufo-Addo said in a Facebook post. “As I said during the ceremony, ‘GNS Achimota represents the evolution of our Navy and a marker of resilience, service, and growth.’ This … reflects our unwavering dedication to making Ghana a maritime powerhouse in the region.”
Kurinoura Shipbuilding built the Achimota in Japan in 1999. It is powered by a single-screw fixed-pitch propeller and diesel engine. It has advanced navigation, communication and surveillance systems, The Defense Post reported. It will serve as a military training platform. Ghana expects delivery of two offshore patrol boats to help protect the country’s oil and gas infrastructure, Military Africa reported.
“GNS Achimota is not just a ship, but it is a beacon of hope,” Ghana Chief of Naval Staff Rear Adm. Issah Adam Yakubu said during a December 21, 2024, ceremony marking the ship’s arrival.