The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has expressed grave concern over a video circulating on social media showing market women being transported as passengers on a fishing canoe heading to the Anyanui market in the Volta Region.
In a statement, the Authority strongly condemned the act, describing it as a reckless disregard for maritime safety regulations and a serious endangerment of human life.
The GMA noted that the incident is particularly troubling in light of the recent canoe accident in the Oti Region, which claimed 16 lives.
This, the Authority said, comes at a time when it has intensified nationwide efforts to ensure strict compliance with safety protocols on Ghana’s waterways.
Key safety regulations the public must observe
Fishing vessels are for fishing only:
Fishing boats, canoes, and other vessels certified for fishing activities are strictly prohibited from being used for any other commercial purpose, including the transport of passengers.Use of certified life jackets is mandatory:
All persons aboard any boat or canoe on Ghana’s waters must wear certified life jackets at all times, regardless of the distance or duration of travel. The video in circulation, the Authority observed, reflects a complete failure to comply with this basic and non-negotiable safety requirement.
The Ghana Maritime Authority reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing safety standards on all Ghanaian waters. It called on residents of coastal and inland communities—especially those who depend on water transport—as well as community leaders, to support the Authority’s campaign for compliance and safe water travel.
The GMA emphasised that adherence to safety protocols is essential to prevent avoidable tragedies and protect lives across the country’s waterways.
