Ghana Navy in partnership with the Danish Government has commissioned a state-of-the-art Maritime Simulation Centre at the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) in Nutekpor on Monday 27 January 2025.

The project funded by the Danish Government, underscores the enduring partnership between Ghana and Denmark, strengthening Ghana’s maritime security and operational readiness in the Gulf of Guinea.

The facility has been named LILL-MAY DIDRIKSEN SIMULATION CENTRE, in honour of the first female naval officer in the Royal Danish Navy. It has a 270-degree Full Mission Bridge Simulator, three 120-degree Part-Task Simulators, two Instructor Stations, Briefing and Server Rooms and Offices for Instructors.

Speaking at the ceremony, Guest of Honour and Legal Counsel to the President of the Republic of Ghana, Ms Marietta Agyeiwaa Brew-Opong, expressed profound gratitude to the Danish Government for its commitment to enhancing Ghana’s maritime security and development.

She said Denmark has been an invaluable partner, contributing significantly to strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea; a vital corridor for global trade. “Thanks to international efforts and partnerships like this, we have seen significant improvements in combating piracy and maritime crimes,” she stated.

Ms Brew-Oppong expressed hope that the new facility would enhance maritime training, strengthen the Ghana Navy and contribute to the country’s overall maritime development.

On his part, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu, emphasised on the transformative impact of the facility saying it would significantly enhance Ghana Navy’s training programmes, and help personnel to master complex navigation and operational scenarios in a safe and controlled environment. He noted the project represents a leap forward in Ghana’s maritime domain.

Vice Admiral Yakubu also acknowledged Denmark’s unwavering support, highlighting initiatives they have embarked on including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)-supported “Ship-in-a-Box” facility at NAVTRAC for training maritime forces in the region and addressing security threats.

In addition, he mentioned Denmark’s contribution towards the construction of a world-class swimming pool with diving capabilities for Ghana Navy.

The Deputy Chief of Navy of the Royal Danish Navy, Commodore (Cdre) BO Overgaard reaffirmed Denmark’s dedication to addressing security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea. He said piracy, illegal fishing and armed robbery continue to threaten trade and regional stability calling for unified international efforts.

Cdre Overgaard described the Bridge Simulator as an advanced piece of technology which represents the trust and collaboration between our nations. He emphasised the project ensures local ownership and serves as a model for sustainable development which will also enhance safety and prosperity in Ghana and the broader Gulf of Guinea region.

The facility, he said, allows for effective training without taking operational ships out of service.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) NAVTRAC, Commodore Solomon Asiedu-Larbi, also described the gesture as a step forward in maritime training, stating the advanced Simulation Centre represents years of careful planning, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.

The FOC NAVTRAC said the venture solidifies NAVTRAC as a centre of excellence for the entire maritime community, expressing appreciation to the CNS for his astute leadership and to Denmark for making the project a reality.