Africa-Press – Gambia. The closing ceremony of the 50th anniversary of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOCA) ended on a symbolic diplomatic note on Friday with Ghana presenting gifts to Gambia’s Vice President and the Minister of Transport.
The closing ceremony was held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo where Transport, Works and Infrastructure Minister Ebrima Sillah, received commemorative gift.
The gesture, delivered on behalf of Ghana’s President, highlighted regional solidarity and underscored the spirit of cooperation that has defined MOCA’s five decades of maritime partnership across West and Central Africa.
Speaking during the ceremony, Ghana’s delegation conveyed warm greetings from Accra and described the presentation as a token of friendship and shared commitment to strengthening maritime development and regional integration.
The gift, delegates noted, carried historic significance and symbolised Africa’s collective journey toward economic transformation through maritime cooperation.
The presentation formed part of a colourful closing session that brought together ministers, maritime experts, diplomats and development partners from across the sub-region to reflect on MOCA’s achievements and chart the way forward for the sector.
Earlier remarks throughout the anniversary highlighted the organisation’s role in advancing maritime safety, promoting institutional collaboration and supporting the blue economy agenda in member states.
Speakers also emphasised the importance of sustained cooperation in tackling emerging challenges such as maritime security threats, environmental protection and infrastructure development.
The ceremony further showcased renewed commitments by member states to deepen policy coordination, invest in port modernisation and strengthen capacity building for maritime professionals, particularly youth.
Beyond policy discussions, the Ghanaian gesture injected a human and diplomatic touch into the event, drawing applause from delegates and reinforcing the message of unity that dominated the Golden Jubilee celebrations.
As proceedings drew to a close, officials reiterated that MOCA’s 50-year milestone represents not only a moment of reflection but also a call to action to harness the vast economic opportunities within Africa’s maritime domain.
The anniversary celebrations ultimately ended with renewed optimism, with participants expressing confidence that strengthened partnerships and shared vision would drive a safer, more competitive and sustainable maritime future for the region.
