By Christabel Danso ABEAM
The Ghana Navy will host the 4th edition of the International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC 2025) on July 8-9 in Accra. This two-day gathering seeks to unite over 500 prominent attendees from more than 70 countries to address the increasing challenges and possibilities within Africa's maritime region.
Introduced in 2019, the two-year initiative has gradually evolved into a key platform for international discussions on maritime safety. The conference this year takes place as the region faces growing maritime challenges, including piracy, unauthorized fishing, cybercrime, and economic disruption.
The IMDEC 2025 conference will gather regional and global Chiefs of Naval Staff, business leaders, and government officials to work together and examine innovative approaches that safeguard the crucial economic zone. The gathering is anticipated to include panel debates, interactive workshops, and a state-of-the-art maritime technology showcase.
"Only by integrating innovative policy structures with practical and achievable strategies, like those outlined in IMDEC 2025, can we effectively manage the challenges of change," stated Commodore Ben Baba Abdul, Chief Staff Officer of Naval Headquarters, during his speech at a media event in Accra.
IMDEC 2025 aims to promote robust cooperation between governments, navies, and the private sector in addressing both conventional and unconventional security issues. As threats like smuggling, piracy, economic disruption, and terrorism grow more technologically advanced, organizers emphasize that long-term multilateral partnerships are essential. The event will also provide a platform to highlight achievements in maritime security within the Gulf of Guinea, alongside presenting a plan for the sustainable development of the marine industry.
Exhibition
The showcase portion of IMDEC 2025 will highlight cutting-edge maritime innovations such as satellite image solutions, self-driving ships, intelligent ports, radar systems, and blockchain-based logistics networks. Meanwhile, defense firms from around the globe are set to display equipment designed to enhance the capabilities of African navies in addressing cross-border maritime challenges. As stated by the Chief Staff Officer, these technologies are crucial not only for strengthening defense but also for upgrading port security, cargo handling, and blue economy infrastructure.
Other notable features of IMDEC 2025
Mr. Abdul also mentioned that a key topic at this year's event will be the growing risk of cybercrime in the maritime sector. "With digitalization changing conventional shipping and port activities, coast guards and navies are encountering complex security issues targeting automated systems and data networks. Cybersecurity has emerged as a vital maritime security concern since it affects economic service providers and the navies' ability to ensure maritime safety."
The head of staff recognized the media's essential role in informing the public, particularly regarding issues involving maritime risks and opportunities, and directed the sector to make every effort to increase awareness about the economic benefits of ocean management and the latest developments in the maritime field.
Global impact
The Ghanaian Navy, collaborating with global organizations, will leverage the results of IMDEC 2025 to shape international maritime policy and strengthen Africa's role in the worldwide shipping industry. Conversations and collaborative initiatives started at the conference are anticipated to have a major effect on the maritime industry as well as global trade and security.