Ghana Maritime Authority calls for Maritime Single Window across West Africa

Kamal-Deen Ali pushes for Maritime Single Window to boost port efficiency

Naval Captain (retd) Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, the Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), has called for the comprehensive implementation of a Maritime Single Window (MSW) to streamline port operations across West and Central Africa. Speaking at a regional workshop, Dr. Ali emphasized that the move is essential to resolve ongoing disputes regarding the ownership of information systems, which have historically caused significant delays in trade facilitation. The initiative aims to harmonize digital efforts to ensure that the region remains competitive in the global shipping industry. The workshop brought together representatives from nine member states to evaluate existing digital frameworks, including Port Community Systems (PCS), and to forge a unified strategy for maritime digitalisation. Dr. Ali noted that while Ghana has already made strides in digital infrastructure, there is a pressing need to strengthen these systems and eliminate the operational silos that hamper efficiency. By integrating these platforms, the region can move toward a more transparent and responsive maritime environment that benefits all stakeholders involved in the supply chain. Supporting this initiative, World Bank representative Satya Sahu highlighted the critical importance of interconnected systems to reduce the cost of doing business. He pointed out that maritime stakeholders often face the burden of redundant information submissions, a hurdle that can be cleared through a synchronized digital interface. Additionally, Ghana’s Minister of Transport advocated for increased regional collaboration, urging member states to provide the necessary political and technical support to optimize maritime operations and enhance trade throughput. Representatives from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) also weighed in, stressing that the success of digital initiatives depends on clear delineations of responsibility and robust data governance. They called for sound frameworks to manage the flow of information across borders securely. As West and Central African nations work toward this digital integration, the focus remains on creating a seamless electronic exchange of data that reduces administrative burdens and accelerates the movement of goods through the region's ports.