By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Freetown, Sierra Leone — Senior maritime officials from across West and Central Africa have convened in Freetown for the 34th Session of the Board of Governors Meeting of the Regional Maritime University, which opened Monday at the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen.
The three-day gathering, running from November 3 to 5, 2025, is being hosted by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, in partnership with the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority, and the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. John E. Quawah, Director of Human Resources at the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) and member of Liberia’s delegation, noted that the sessions are designed to strengthen RMU’s operational framework and reinforce its role in building a modern maritime workforce.
“This meeting aims to enhance the university’s capacity in line with evolving global maritime demands,” he said, emphasizing the need for continuous investment in training, innovation, and institutional excellence.
Day one of the conference featured deliberations by the RMU Committee of Experts, who assessed the university’s performance, training standards, and policy direction.
The Experts also examined sector challenges, including digital transformation, port safety, and environmental sustainability. Their conclusions will guide decisions to be taken later by the Board of Governors, RMU’s highest decision-making body.
The annual meeting brings together maritime authorities, policymakers, and technical specialists from RMU’s five member states: Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Cameroon.
Delegates are expected to review progress made over the past year and chart strategic reforms to strengthen the institution’s mandate.
Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, the Regional Maritime University is recognized as a hub for maritime education, research, and capacity development in West and Central Africa.
Its Board of Governors—comprising ministers and heads of national maritime institutions—provides oversight, policy guidance, and ensures alignment with regional priorities and international maritime standards.
