More than 500 participants from over 70 countries, including 15 Chiefs of Naval Staff and 30 expert speakers, are expected to gather in Accra on July 8 for the 4th edition of the International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC).The two-day event, themed "Securing Africa's Maritime Future: Collaboration, Technology, and Sustainability in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape," would bring together global maritime and defense leaders to address pressing security challenges, enhance international cooperation, and showcase cutting-edge technologies for safeguarding Africa's maritime domain.A key feature of this year's conference is a large-scale defense exhibition, highlighting advanced maritime technologies designed to bolster Africa's maritime security architecture.Briefing the media on Thursday, Commodore Ben Baba Abdul, Chief of Staff at the Ghana Naval Headquarters, said IMDEC 2025 aims to enhance intelligence sharing, integrate new technologies, and promote coordinated responses to maritime threats, especially in high-risk areas like the Gulf of Guinea."This event would reinforce regional and international security efforts.
Over the past five years, IMDEC has created opportunities for cooperation, advancement, and innovation in one of the most strategic domains in the world and the ocean," Commodore Abdul stated.He emphasised the economic and strategic importance of the maritime sector, noting its critical role in global trade, resource movement, and national security."The maritime domain enables efficient supply chain operations, facilitates international trade, and provides a cost-effective route for transporting strategic resources," he said."Its true, strategic value is often overlooked, yet it remains the backbone of security and prosperity for coastal and littoral nations," he added.Commodore Abdul added that this year's conference would spotlight the integration of digital technologies in maritime defense.
Key sessions would explore how navies and coast guards can use advanced systems to counter cyber threats, piracy, smuggling, and other emerging risks."While technology has empowered criminals to act more efficiently, it also presents opportunities for stronger maritime surveillance, coordination, and rapid response," Commodore Abdul said.Discussions would focus on leveraging digitisation, cybersecurity, and smart technologies to modernise naval operations, secure navigation routes, and build resilience in Africa's maritime infrastructure amid growing global threats.Since its inception, IMDEC has played a critical role in shaping Africa's naval defense strategies, addressing issues such as piracy, illegal fishing, trafficking, and transnational maritime crime.Commodore Abdul concluded that, by fostering greater collaboration among stakeholders, IMDEC continues to drive efforts toward creating a safer and more secure maritime environment for the continent and Ghana at large. BY RAYMOND APPIAH-AMPONSAH
