Kofi Ampeah Woode
The Ghana Navy (GN) has received a new addition to its fleet, with the arrival of the Ghana Navy Ship (GNS) ACHIMOTA, to enhance the Ghana Navy’s maritime security and patrol capabilities.
The vessel, which docked at the Sekondi Naval Base on Saturday 21 December 2024, was greeted with excitement by Officers, Ratings and Defence Civilian Staff at the Western Naval Command (WNC), Sekondi, in the Western Region of Ghana.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, (GN) – Rear Admiral (R/Adm) Issah Adam Yakubu, who was present to receive the vessel, said the arrival of the vessel marks a significant milestone in GN’s efforts to modernize its fleet, and improve its ability to protect the country’s maritime interests.
The CNS commended and congratulated the Commanding Officer (CO), GNS Achimota – Commander (Cdr) Joshua Joy MacSimpiney, and the ship’s crew for successfully completing the longest passage in Ghana Navy’s history, by crossing the Equator twice at the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
“GNS Achimota is not just a ship, but it is a beacon of hope”, Admiral Yakubu stated.
The single-screw fixed pitch propeller diesel-powered vessel, is equipped with modern technology and advanced navigation and communication systems, as well as cutting-edge surveillance capabilities.
GNS Achimota began her maiden voyage from Yawatahama Port in Japan, under the command of Cdr JJ MacSimpiney on 18 October 2024, and finally arrived at the Sekondi Naval Base on 21 December 2024, having been at sea for 36 days, and covering a distance of 10,869.7 nautical miles.
The ship will be employed in the Ghana Navy fleet among others, for fisheries protection duties, and as a training vessel for Officers and Ratings.
Credit: GN PR
