Ghana, Canada sign agreement to open new employment pathways for seafarers

Ghanaian seafarers could gain access to additional employment opportunities in Canada following an agreement between the two countries to recognise each other's professional maritime certificates.

The arrangement was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London on November 5, 2026.

The agreement was signed for Ghana by the Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Capt. (Rtd.) Dr Kamal-Deen Ali, while Canada's Director-General of Marine Safety and Security at Transport Canada, Joanna Manger, signed on behalf of her government.

The MoU establishes a framework for both countries to recognise certificates of competency issued by their respective maritime administrations, in line with Regulation I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended.

Under the arrangement, qualified Ghanaian seafarers will have a pathway to secure recognition of their professional qualifications by Canadian maritime authorities, subject to applicable certification and endorsement requirements. This could expand their prospects of working aboard Canadian-flagged vessels and in other areas of the country's maritime industry.

The agreement also provides for collaboration between the two administrations in verifying certificates, upholding maritime training standards and ensuring compliance with international requirements.

Beyond facilitating professional mobility, the arrangement is expected to reinforce confidence in Ghana's maritime training and certification system while strengthening cooperation between the two countries on maritime safety and the development of skilled seafarers.

The Ghana High Commission in London has welcomed the agreement, commending the Ghana Maritime Authority, Transport Canada and other stakeholders whose engagements led to its conclusion.

The Mission said the development reflects the commitment of both countries to strengthening maritime cooperation, promoting skills development and creating opportunities for qualified maritime professionals.

The agreement forms part of Ghana's wider efforts to expand international partnerships and improve access to employment opportunities for its seafaring workforce.