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THE GULF SPECTRUM GoGMI Journal of Maritime Research About the Journal The Gulf Spectrum is a flagship journal by the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Institute (GoGMI), intended to provide stakeholders across the Gulf of Guinea and beyond with unique, local perspectives on critical issues surrounding maritime governance, safety and security in the Gulf of Guinea. From piracy and armed robbery at sea to marine environmental concerns such as plastic pollution, the journal will feature contributions that not only highlight the Gulf’s most pertinent ocean governance concerns, but also explore practicable approaches to addressing these, taking into consideration national and regional contexts. The journal will be published annually; however, thematic areas could run longer as single volumes. Each volume of the journal will be characterised by its own writing style in terms of referencing, word count limits, etc., based on discussions with the journal’s editorial board. Rationale The Gulf Spectrum comes at a crucial point in the Gulf of Guinea’s history, with piratical activity at its lowest point in nearly a decade. The sudden drop in piracy and armed robbery at sea raises some key questions: Can the drop in piratical activities be sustained? Are criminal groups merely shifting their focus to other grey areas of maritime criminality in the region?dit the text and include the information you would like to feature? What interlinkages exist between the region’s broad arrays of maritime security concerns? Beyond these security-centered concerns, the Gulf of Guinea - considered as hosting one of the world’s largest marine ecosystems - is characterised by marine environmental concerns, several of which also have notable intersections with maritime safety and security. The region’s complex and dynamic threat path points to the need to develop a more holistic understanding of its intricacies - an understanding that can only be developed if adequate efforts are put in place to consolidate research outputs and perspectives on varying facets of ocean governance in the Gulf of Guinea. The Gulf Spectrum provides one of the most exclusive, local-driven platforms for this consolidation. By disseminating well-written, analytical pieces from authors within the Gulf of Guinea, the journal will allow its readers to explore unfolding incidents through insider lenses and to hear the voices that matter the most in shaping governance outcomes in a region that was once considered the most dangerous for seafarers across the globe. Subscribe to get exclusive updates about the Journal Email Join Our Mailing List Thanks for subscribing! About Volume 1: Maritime Security Interventions in the Gulf of Guinea It is clear that maritime security debates over the past few decades have centered on the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) – a region considered the most dangerous for seafarers – and the unique conundrum it presents to maritime security cooperation. The Gulf of Guinea is crucial, not only because it is geographically cardinal to maritime trade but also because its strategic significance is largely interwoven with the interests of a large number of actors. The implications of this are as extensive and multifaceted. For instance, while it does imply a multiplicity of interests in enhancing the region’s maritime security, it equally infers the exposure of the region to a more complex set of maritime security threats, as well as a more complex set of responses to these threats. The Gulf is therefore characterised by an intricate nexus of threats and governance challenges that have resulted in varied responses from different levels of actors. From the composite Yaoundé Architecture to the multi-actor G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea, these interventions have emerged in response to the peculiar nature of maritime security challenges faced by the region and are likely to evolve as the dynamics of those challenges change over time. The implications of this proliferation of interventions are two-fold. First, it deepens the need for partnerships and collaborations across a broad range of stakeholders. Second, it heightens elements of informality and experimentation in governance approaches towards attaining shared goals within the region. Whether such an evolution will be beneficial to advancing the multiplex of interests in the region, however, is dependent on a contextual analysis of how their discourses and practices have shaped the maritime security architecture of the region and how various actors deal with the complexities of the region’s maritime security environment. It is also dependent on a credible assessment of how efforts in the region aimed at addressing maritime security concerns can be more effectively coordinated and harnessed towards the attainment of shared interests. This volume seeks to collate research on the complexity of maritime security interventions in the Gulf of Guinea, with the ultimate intent of illuminating viable pathways for harmonizing collective efforts towards enhancing shared goals. Submissions will address the following thematic areas: Evolution of Maritime Security Initiatives Range of existing Initiatives Actor Relations and Responses Request a Copy Today! 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JOB DESCRIPTION Job Title: Programs Assistant (Entry-Level) Department: Technical Services Reports To: Programs Coordinator Job Purpose: The Program Assistant provides day-to-day administrative and programmatic support to the Programs Coordinator and staff. Key Accountabilities: Assist in research for developing grant proposals Assist in drafting budgets and writing project/event summaries. Assist programs coordinator and executive director with general administrative duties. Assist in organizing events. Attend and report on relevant conferences, meetings, and other events. Research information on current maritime developments in the Gulf of Guinea region and international Qualifications & Experience Knowledge/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in a maritime or related discipline; 1+ years of work experience in an office environment; Administrative support experience. Other Qualifications Knowledge of major maritime issues and trends in the Gulf of Guinea region; Fluency in English with strong writing skills is required; Skills Attention to detail and the ability to multi-task; Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills; High degree of organization and initiative. Deadline for Application: 3 July 2022 Terms of Employment: 6 Months initial contract with the opportunity for permanent employment based on performance. Applications must include a cover letter , resume , desired salary and contact information for three professional references . To apply, send your resume and cover letter to vacancies@gogmi.org.gh

International Maritime Security Working group: Image IMSWG 隸屬於幾內亞灣海事研究所，由海事專家和 從業人員組成的工作組 跨越行業、學術界、國家、地區和國際機構和組織。 這是幾內亞灣國際海事利益相關者的平台，旨在創建一個分享海事問題想法的網絡。 STREAM MEETING DOWNLOAD BRIEF REPORT DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT 國際海事安全工作組 IMSWG Download Concept Note Here IMSWG 隸屬於幾內亞灣海事研究所，由海事專家和 從業人員組成的工作組 跨越行業、學術界、國家、地區和國際機構和組織。 這是幾內亞灣國際海事利益相關者的平台，旨在創建一個分享海事問題想法的網絡。 Registration Link: Download Full Report Apply Here International Maritime Security Working group: Files IMSWG 報告 免費下載 發展加納的藍色經濟： 前景與挑戰 首次會議報告 本報告是各政府機構代表通力合作的產物 和機構專家，以及由幾內亞灣領導的海運業的利益相關者 海事研究所 (GoGMI) 在科菲國際維和中心的支持下。 下載 海洋塑料垃圾，危害海洋健康和藍色經濟 第二次會議報告 本報告是環境保護署代表、英國大使館區域環境辦公室和機構專家以及由幾內亞灣海事研究所領導的海運業利益相關者共同努力的產物 下載 區域和國家海事戰略：前景和挑戰 於 2020 年 7 月 10 日舉行了第一次 GoGMI-IMSWG 在線虛擬會議，旨在討論區域和國家戰略在治理和管理幾內亞灣海域方面的前景和挑戰。會議主要內容已彙編成報告。 Meeting Video 下載 查看所有報告

Student Membership Student membership offers a great opportunity for undergraduate or postgraduate students to become involved in the Institute’s activities by exploring a wide range of policy issues, research works, and debate developmental topics of interest relevant in the Gulf of Guinea region. Through a variety of curated and innovative platforms that falls in line with the Institute programs, it engages young members to create compelling opportunities to engage with experienced maritime experts and policy practitioners from the fields of politics, academia, private sector, and industry. The student membership gives young members - who have been chosen through a membership application process – the opportunity to work closely with GoGMI experts on various research programs and develop innovative ideas that contribute to addressing the current challenges facing the region. Applicants should show a commitment to contributing to national and regional strategic debates, and are required to provide a copy of attestation from their university confirming the name and dates of their course, or a copy of their student ID. Sign Up Today! First Name Last Name Email Phone Address/GPS Address Next As a Student, you’ll benefit from: Certificate of membership from the institute Exclusive invitations to our International Maritime Security Working Group forum series Exclusive access to our online library of resources The opportunity to lend your voice to the Institute’s forum, and contribute to our indigenous research activities and programs. Discount on registration for professional conferences. For further enquiries, contact us on membership@gogmi.org.gh

JOB DESCRIPTION The Gulf of Guinea Maritime Institute is seeking an experienced and dynamic Associate Director to help our organisation to the next level of growth and impact. The ideal candidate must be a visionary leader with a passion for our mission and a track record of success in maritime research, public advocacy, and capacity development in the Gulf of Guinea region. Responsibilities: Develop and implement strategic plans that advance the organisation's mission and vision in consultation with management. Oversee day-to-day operations, including program management, finance, fundraising, and human resources. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, and community members. Provide technical support and expertise for the implementation of research projects and grants. Represent the Institute at conferences, workshops, and strategic-level stakeholder engagements. Lead fundraising efforts and ensure financial sustainability of the organisation. Assist in talent acquisition and management. Ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards, including those related to financial management and programme delivery Qualifications: Minimum of a Master’s degree in fields related to ocean governance, maritime security, coastal zone management, marine conservation and other relevant areas. Minimum of 5 years demonstrable experience in any maritime or ocean related field, preferably in a leadership position Proven track record of successful fundraising and revenue generation in the NGO sector Strong strategic planning and program development skills Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills Experience working with high-level stakeholders Experience in maritime administration and research is desired Must be a Ghanaian or a legal resident in Ghana. Deadline for Application: 22nd March, 2023 Applications must include a cover letter , resume , and contact information for three professional references . CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Hosted by In collaboration with DOWNLOAD BLUE CAREER AND BUSINESS EXPO 2021 PUBLIC REPORT HERE EVENT SUMMARY 10 EXHIBITORS 5 VVIPS 16 INVITED GUESTS 200 PARTICIPANTS 6 PANEL DISCUSSIONS The Blue Careers and Business EXPO 2021 was intended to create multiple opportunity-exchange platforms for young people to interact with maritime industry leaders and contribute to a robust blue economy in Africa. The 2-day conference platform was also be used to initiate a mentorship program to be co-managed by GoGMI to foster career development among the participants of the conference. In-depth panel discussions, network sessions and exhibition of maritime businesses further highlighted this exposition as the premier strategic gathering of Ghana’s maritime industry leaders and organisations, related ministries, maritime businesses and young people. 章節標題 About the Event Attendance Hosted at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping and Training Centre, the Expo was attended by over 200 people, including high profile personalities, maritime industry practitioners, students and other relevant stakeholders. Present were Her Excellency Kati Csaba, High Commissioner of Canada to Ghana, Rear Admiral Issah Yakubu, Chief of Naval Staff, Ghana Navy, Hon. Kathleen Quartey Ayensu, Special Rapporteur for Piracy and Maritime Security for the AU Commission, and Mr. Tukur Mohammed the Maritime Security and Safety Programme Officer of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS), who joined the meeting virtually. Exhibitors from the maritime industry mounted stands to introduce participants to varying opportunities within Ghana’s blue economy and to showcase their innovative products, services and maritime solutions. These included Consolidated Shipping Agency Ltd, SIC Life Company Limited, Plastic Punch, Centrepoint Supply Chain Solutions Limited, Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, WISTA Ghana, SOKO Aerial Robotics, Odomankoma Maritime News Agency, Regional Maritime University (RMU) and the Ghana Navy. Presentations, Panel Discussions One of the primary differentiators of the Expo was a series of panel discussions and presentations that sought to expose participants to topical issues centered on Africa’s blue economy and equip them with requisite knowledge necessary to prime them to be at the fore of innovation and change within the maritime industry. Day One of the event was kicked off with goodwill messages from some dignitaries present, and a highly insightful keynote address. The first presentation set the pace for the rest of the Expo with the topic, Blue Economy Opportunities for Youth in Ghana , and was corroborated by the following panel discussions: The panel discussions were highly engaging, with youth showing keen interest in all three discussion areas. The exhibition tours and coffee breaks were characterised by high levels of cross-interaction among the various categories of participants present, with the youth actively engaging in dialogue with experts an industry practitioners. Day two of the event commenced with an in-depth presentation on SWAIMS and Gender in the Maritime Space , as well as the following panel discussions: The day’s activities also included the launch of Ghana’s Blue Business Directory, a GoGMI innovation intended to provide an online repository of businesses and opportunities within Ghana’s maritime industry and blue economy space. VVIPS H. E. Kati Csaba Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana Mr. Tukur Mohammed Programme Officer, Maritime Security and Safety, Economic Community of West Africa States, ECOWAS Rear Admiral Issah Yakubu Chief of the Naval Staff, Ghana Navy Hon. Kathleen Ayensu Quartey Special Rapporteur on Piracy and Maritime Safety, African Union Dr. Kofi Mbiah Maritime Consultant Just the Beginning… The Expo was not intended to be an isolated event, but the first in a series of events aimed at grooming African youth to drive innovation and positive change in the continent’s maritime industry. The funding and support of the Canadian High Commission was inimical to the success of the event. The Gulf of Guinea Maritime Institute looks forward to further deepening and strengthening collaboration with the Commission towards future events in line with this ultimate vision. EVENT PROSPECTUS Event Agenda Informative Flyer Event Report Event Portfolio ALL COVID-19 PROTOCOLS OBSERVED

Fellow Membership GoGMI awards Fellowship only to exceptional individuals at the forefront of ocean governance, maritime safety and security, or related disciplines and have demonstrated significant achievements relevant to GoGMI over the last 10 years. Applicants must show evidence of their specific personal contributions, achievements and the associated impact in two and no more than three of the eight criteria described below. To apply, complete the application form here using no more than 1000 words in total, where appropriate include URL links for significant additional evidence. URL links should only be used to validate key evidence provided. If you cannot provide publicly available information due to security or other sensitivity, then it must be confirmed by your supporters. Sign Up Today! First Name Last Name Email Phone Address/GPS Address Next As a Fellow you’ll benefit from: Certificate of fellowship from the institute Our exclusive Fellows Telegram group for global networking The opportunity to lend your voice to the Institute’s forum, and contribute to our indigenous research activities and programs. Exclusive invitations to our International Maritime Security Working Group forum series as well as a significant discount on registration for our professional conferences. Criteria: Creativity Describe the key findings of your independent contributions to original research, including the associated outcomes and impact that have resulted in national and /or international recognition. Include a selection of the following examples that cover the full 5-year period. Influence and contribution Indicate any other activities that demonstrate the expectations for GoGMI Fellow not covered by the criteria above. There must be evidence of personal impact but there is no other constraint on the type of activity that might be considered under this criterion. It could include any of the following: – Any activity that fulfils the wider goals and aims of GoGMI and is of a standard commensurate with the other Fellowship criteria. Our mission: To provide an intellectual base to governments, organizations, corporate bodies and individuals whose activities impinge upon the maritime domain of the GoG Region to ensure a sustainable use of the sea. Enterprise Summarize your personal creation and development of successful business (es) or significant business unit(s) in areas relevant to the IET, including details of products and services developed and delivered. Responsibility Summarize your operational responsibility for significant programmes, activities, risks and resources within an organization (commercial, industrial, government, military or academic). Include an organizational chart that shows your title and your position within your organization both upwards and downwards, including the number of people that report directly and indirectly to you. Insight and experience Show your roles as a consultant, business manager, technical specialist / subject area expert / functional head in fields related to engineering and technology. Service Describe the impact of your outstanding service as an exceptional individual on committees or other relevant organizations in ocean governance and maritime safety and security disciplines such as non-government and government committees, not-for-profit organizations etc. Leadership Describe your senior role(s) that set, directs or significantly influences an organization’s vision, strategic and operational aims. Please include an organizational chart that shows your title and position within your organization both upwards and downwards, including the number of professional engineers and other professional people that report directly and indirectly to you. Demonstrate how you have shown leadership. Repute Provide evidence of public recognition of standing at national and/or international level For further enquiries, contact us on membership@gogmi.org.gh

MARITIME SECURITY INTERVENTIONS AUDIT Background and Rationale It is clear that maritime security debates over the past few decades have centered on the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) – a region considered the most dangerous for seafarers – and the unique conundrum it presents to maritime security cooperation. The Gulf of Guinea is crucial, not only because it is geographically cardinal to maritime trade but also because its strategic significance is largely interwoven with the interests of a large number of actors. The implications of this are as extensive and multifaceted. For instance, while it does imply a multiplicity of interests in enhancing the region’s maritime security, it equally infers the exposure of the region to a more complex set of maritime security threats, as well as a more complex set of responses to these threats. The Gulf is therefore characterised by an intricate nexus of threats and governance challenges that have resulted in varied responses from different levels of actors. From the composite Yaoundé Architecture to the multi-actor G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea, these interventions have emerged in response to the peculiar nature of maritime security challenges faced by the region and are likely to evolve as the dynamics of those challenges change over time. The implications of this proliferation of interventions are two-fold. First, it deepens the need for partnerships and collaborations across a broad range of stakeholders. Second, it heightens elements of informality and experimentation in governance approaches towards attaining shared goals within the region. Whether such an evolution will be beneficial to advancing the multiplex of interests in the region, however, is dependent on a contextual analysis of how their discourses and practices have shaped the maritime security architecture of the region and how various actors deal with the complexities of the region’s maritime security environment. It is also dependent on a credible assessment of how efforts in the region aimed at addressing maritime security concerns can be more effectively coordinated and harnessed towards the attainment of shared interests. A study that incorporates these dynamics could create a much clearer understanding of the suitability of existing frameworks for enhancing maritime security in the region. Areas of Exploration This study seeks to contribute to the limited research on the complexity of maritime security interventions in the Gulf of Guinea, with the ultimate intent of illuminating viable pathways for harmonising collective efforts towards enhancing shared goals. The research questions are categorised under three thematic areas as indicated below: Existing maritime security initiatives/frameworks in the region: What are the range of existing maritime security initiatives in the region and what is their disposition, especially in terms of threat focus? How successful or otherwise have these interventions been in curbing incidents of maritime crime in the region? Evolution of maritime security initiatives/ frameworks in the region: What are the primary reasons for varying maritime security initiatives in the Gulf of Guinea? What has been the evolutionary trajectory of the range of initiatives in the region? How did complexities evolve over time? How have the discourses and practices of actors shaped approaches to maritime security in the region over time? Actor relations and responses What are the power relationships imbued within the cluster of interventions in the region? How are the resulting complexities navigated by state and non-state actors with varying interests in the region? How have the discourse and practices of various actors shaped the maritime security architecture of the region? Are there existing mechanisms to reduce complexities or facilitate coordination amongst existing initiatives, interventions or frameworks? What are the prospects for harmonising the convoluted mix of efforts in the region towards the ultimate end of enhancing maritime security? Phases of the Audit The fundamental aim of this study is to map the range of maritime security initiatives and interventions in the Gulf of Guinea, assess the complexities these have posed to maritime security governance, examine the responses of actors to these complexities and determine whether or not efforts have been successful and can be ultimately harmonised towards enhancing the region’s maritime security. To achieve this, the audit will be conducted along four different phases, depicted in the figure below. Figure 1: Phases of the Audit Major Outputs The Audit has been structured by the Institute to result in a number of notable outputs, each of which will result in substantial contributions to advancing maritime security governance in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond. These are enumerated below: Brief Analytical Papers of Major Interventions Prior to publication of the detailed study report, brief analytical papers on selected maritime security interventions will be disseminated by the Institute as separate publications. Each paper will provide a brief historical backdrop to the intervention in question, explore its scope, examine whether or not the intervention is achieving its primary objectives and investigate practicable pathways to strengthening the ability of these interventions to attain their ultimate goals. 2. Policy Briefs Useful policy actions intended to be included in the detailed report will be shared as quarterly policy briefs for the duration of the Audit. The quarterly briefs will provide direct policy recommendations for addressing gaps within the region’s maritime security architecture. 3. Detailed Report The primary output of the study will be a detailed report of findings, conclusions and recommendations titled The Gulf Complex: An Audit of the Range of Maritime Security Interventions in the Gulf of Guinea. The structured report will serve as a useful reference document for all stakeholders interested in gaining a complete picture of the full range of maritime security interventions in the Gulf of Guinea. Corroborated by infographics and diagrammatic representations, the report will provide a clear picture of cross-linkages between interventions in the region, as well as an analysis of the successes and failures chalked by these interventions. 4. Dissemination Workshop Following the publication of the detailed report, the Institute will conduct a regional workshop to disseminate the findings of the study across a broad range of stakeholders in the region. The workshop will particularly be aimed at enhancing high-level dialogue between policy makers across the region and key actors playing a role in the execution of the myriad of initiatives in the Gulf of Guinea, on pathways to coordinating efforts towards shared regional interests and objectives. 5. Journal Edition: The Gulf Spectrum The Institute began processes towards publication of the first edition of the Gulf Spectrum, a flagship journal intended to provide stakeholders across the Gulf of Guinea and beyond with unique, local perspectives on critical issues surrounding maritime governance, safety and security in the Gulf of Guinea. The first edition of the journal will be published under the theme, Maritime Security Interventions in the Gulf of Guinea and will provide a pathway to collating research and regional voices on the MSIA along three thematic areas: Evolution of maritime security initiatives in the Gulf of Guinea The range of existing initiatives in the region Actor relations and responses The Call for Papers was publicised in the month of September. Afterwards, the Institute, along with the Editorial constituted for the journal, selected eleven abstracts and informed the authors accordingly. The Atlantic Centre has indicated its commitment to provide editorial support for the first edition of the Gulf Spectrum and to contribute towards the organisation of the planned MSIA Conference, where authors will be given the opportunity to present their papers. Audit Outcomes & Impacts The Audit is a crucial first step to demystifying complexities resulting from the convoluted mix of maritime security interventions in the Gulf of Guinea. It is intended to yield an array of short-term outcomes and long-term impacts, as illustrated below. Figure 2: Outcomes & Impacts Methodology The research is expected to be conducted using a mix of methods, ranging from open and explorative qualitative and quantitative approaches , through desktop reviews, interviews, focus-group discussions and stakeholder surveys. Each of these approaches will be segmented according to the various phases of the research as per the figure below. Figure 3: Data Sources Data gathered from each of these sources will undergo rigorous analysis and verification processes such as cross referencing, before being included in the final report. Again, all stakeholders approached for expert interviews, focus group discussions or to participate in stakeholder surveys with be notable actors, stakeholders or implementers within requisite maritime security interventions across the region to ensure that feedback is both credible and relevant. The report will include relevant charts, figures and infographics necessary to adequately convey information gathered. Some of the documents to be reviewed are listed below in the execution of the Audit are listed below: Figure 4: Inexhaustive List of Documentary Sources Research Report: Great Power Competition in the Atlantic GoGMI was confirmed as a key partner with the Atlantic Centre in co-authoring a report on great power competition in the Atlantic. The report aims to address the consequences of non-Atlantic powers present in the Atlantic as its core object of study, in order to best depict the current predicaments the region faces in the short and middle run. GoGMI’s chapter in the report highlights the nature of great power competition within the context of the Gulf of Guinea, as well as how such competition ultimately influences maritime security outcomes in the region.

Maritime Security Strategy Development & Implementation: A Focus on Africa First Cohort - 2023 TESTIMONIALS ‘‘Joining the class as someone with very little insight into maritime operations and strategies, the course deepened my knowledge of maritime operations while broadening my scope of general strategy development’’. BIOS LIEUTENANT COMMANDER KWAME YELBUOR I am Lieutenant Commander Kwame Yelbuor of the Ghana Navy. I hail from Eremong Tangzu in the Upper West Region of Ghana. I hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Geography and Resource and Resource Development from the University of Ghana, Legon. I was commissioned into the Executive Branch of the Ghana Navy on 30 August 2013. I have obtained various training both in Ghana and abroad including Initial Naval Officer Training in Dartmouth, United Kingdom in 2015. I have served onboard different Ghana Navy Ships. I have held various appointments onboard GN Ships including Executive Officer, Watching Keeping Officer, Acting Navigation Officer and others. Some of the ashore appoints held including Acting Assistant Director Naval Intelligence from July 2019 to July 2020 and the Acting Operations Officer for the ECOWAS Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre located at the Osu Castle from 2020 to 2022. I am currently the Commanding Officer for Ghana Navy Ship EHWOR. LIEUTENANT COMMANDER EDEM KOMLA AKATI I am Lieutenant Commander Edem Komla Akati, 36 years of age and a Senior Officer in the Ghana Navy. I was commissioned into the Executive Branch of the Ghana Navy in September 2011, after 2 years training both in Ghana and the United Kingdom. In 12 years of Commissioned Service with the Navy, I have gained valuable experience as a naval officer serving in various capacities both ashore and at sea. Some of the notable appointments held at sea include Training Officer, Navigation Officer, Executive Officer and Commanding Officer (Captain) onboard various Ghana Navy Ships such as GNS EHWOR, GNS YAA ASANTEWAA, GNS NAA GBEWAA and GNS PRA. Ashore I have held appointments at various establishments including Flag Lieutenant to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Instructor Naval Faculty of the Ghana Military Academy and Assistant Director Naval Administration at the Naval Headquarters. I have also attended all career courses commensurate to my rank. These include the Royal Navy Young Officer Course in UK (adjudged Overall Best International Student) and the Navigation Specialisation Course in China. I have also attended the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) where I completed the Junior Staff Course, and Senior Command and Staff Course emerging as the Overall Best Student and Second Best Student respectively. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, and Master of Science Degree in Defence and International Politics from GAFCSC. I am married to Louisa with whom I have 3 daughters, and enjoy watching documentaries in my leisure time. MAXIMUS ASHITEY Maximus Ashitey is the General Manager of Soko Aerial Robotics Limited, Deputy Director of the Unmanned Aerial Systems Research Lab (UASRL) and also currently the Deputy Director for the Soko Aerial and Signal Training School Centre for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Research, Development and Education. He holds a BA degree in Political Science from the University of Ghana, Legon. Combining his passion for drone technology with a solid foundation in political science, he brings a unique perspective to the world of aerial operations. With extensive training and experience in operating drones, he is proficient in capturing high-quality aerial imagery and conducting precise surveys, and prides himself in delivering accurate and actionable data through advanced drone technology. With a deep appreciation for the transformative potential of drone technology and a solid background in political science, he is eager to continue leveraging expertise to support a wide range of industries and initiatives. He is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of endless with drones while adhering to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. LIEUTENANT COMMANDER EMILIO OKYERE-DADZIE Lieutenant Commander Emilio Okyere-Dadzie was commissioned into the Executive Branch of the Ghana Navy in 2008. He has attended relevant courses both locally and internationally. Emilio holds a BSc Nautical Science from Regional Maritime University, Ghana, an MBA in Port and Shipping Management, MBA in Oil and Gas Management both from the National Institute of Business Management, India. Additionally, he holds MSc Defence and International Politics from GIMPA. Emilio is a Navigation Specialist, a Class 3 Deck Officer and a Dynamic Positioning Operator. Emilio has served in various capacities within the Ghana Navy both afloat and ashore. He is currently the Deputy Director Naval Research & Development at the and doubles as the Command Operations Officer for the Riverine Command. He is an Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute and the Royal Institute of Navigation, both in the United Kingdom FRANCES JEMIMAH ANABIA-TIAH I am an TechIOSH with the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health Professionals and a certified Crisis Management person. A trained ISO 14001, 9001, and 45001 Lead Auditor and Lead Implementer currently works as the ISO Coordinator for the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, HQ. I am a certified NEBOSH IGC person. I am a member of the Authority’s Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment Committee and several other critical committees tasked to develop strategies for transforming the Authority’s business. I have represented the Authority on several local and international platforms. I possess an in-depth understanding of maritime regulations, operations, and processes. I have worked with the Tema Shipyard on a Secondment basis as the Business Development Manager for three years. I led a team to implement the ISO management systems made of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001(now ISO 45001) for the Authority in 2013. I was part of the team that implemented ISO 27001 in 2022 I worked part-time with other local and international consulting firms on Strategic planning and ISO Standard implementation. I am committed to applying my acquired knowledge and skills toward improving business management processes.