The European Union (EU) has strengthened the operational capabilities of the Ghana Navy through the donation of two Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) under the Support to West Africa Integrated Maritime Security (SWAIMS) Programme. The handover ceremony took place on 4 August 2026 at the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) in Nutekpor, following the successful completion of a two-week Boat Operators Training Course delivered by instructors from the Portuguese Navy.

The training programme was designed to enhance the professional skills of Ghana Navy personnel in boat handling, navigation, seamanship, maritime safety and operational procedures, providing participants with the expertise required to conduct effective maritime security operations within Ghana’s territorial waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea.

Welcoming participants and distinguished guests, Naval Captain David Dela Kpetigo, Training Coordinator of NAVTRAC, highlighted the importance of the continued partnership between the Ghana Navy and the EU SWAIMS Programme. He noted that the successful completion of the training and the donation of the RHIBs demonstrated the European Union’s sustained commitment to strengthening Ghana’s maritime security capabilities through practical training and modern equipment.

Speaking during the ceremony, Commodore Antonio Neves Rodrigues, General Coordinator of the EU SWAIMS Programme, praised the trainees for their dedication throughout the course and reaffirmed the programme’s commitment to supporting maritime security initiatives across the Gulf of Guinea. He emphasised that the donated boats would enhance the ability of regional maritime forces to counter piracy, armed robbery at sea, illegal fishing, trafficking and other transnational maritime crimes that continue to threaten regional security and economic development.

Representing the European Union, Madam Gisela Spreitzhofer reiterated the EU’s long-term commitment to promoting sustainable maritime security and regional cooperation in West Africa. She stressed that secure maritime domains are essential for international trade, economic prosperity and regional stability, adding that the EU would continue working closely with Ghana and other coastal nations to build resilient maritime institutions capable of responding to evolving security challenges.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) NAVTRAC, Commodore James Adongo Agambire, who attended as Guest of Honour, expressed the Ghana Navy’s appreciation to the European Union, the EU SWAIMS Programme and the Portuguese Navy for their continued support. He stated that both the training programme and the delivery of the RHIBs would significantly enhance the Navy’s operational readiness, training capacity and ability to safeguard Ghana’s maritime domain.

Receiving the boats on behalf of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Commodore Agambire assured the European Union that the vessels would be properly maintained and effectively employed in support of maritime security operations and practical training. He also reaffirmed the Ghana Navy’s commitment to further strengthening its cooperation with the EU SWAIMS Programme.

The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation of the two RHIBs, the award of certificates to personnel who successfully completed the Boat Operators Training Course and a live demonstration showcasing the operational capabilities of the newly delivered craft. The event marked another important milestone in the enduring partnership between the European Union and the Ghana Navy, aimed at enhancing maritime security and stability thro

sourse: (Story by: Rebecca Morkli-Ghana Navy)