# Regional seafarer certification training in West Africa > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/regional-seafarer-certification-training-in-west-africa > Updated: 2026-08-31T17:45:57.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) launched a five-day regional workshop in Accra to standardize seafarer certification, assessment, and examination protocols across West and Central Africa. Utilizing the IMO Model Course 3.12, the program aims to address competency gaps and deficiencies identified through the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS), including issues such as inadequate documentation and insufficient oversight of training results. The initiative seeks to ensure compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). Participants included maritime professionals from several nations, including Ghana, Liberia, Cabo Verde, Nigeria, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo. The training also incorporates modern methods, such as the use of simulators and gender-sensitive teaching practices, to improve maritime safety and inclusive education. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: IMO and Ghana Maritime Authority launch regional seafarer certification training The IMO and Ghana Maritime Authority are conducting regional training in Accra to improve seafarer assessment and certification standards across West and Central Africa. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/imo-and-ghana-maritime-authority-launch-regional-seafarer-certification-training ### 2026-08-24: Ghana Maritime Authority and IMO launch regional seafarer certification training The IMO and Ghana Maritime Authority have launched a regional training program in Accra to standardize seafarer certification and assessment protocols across several West African nations. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ghana-maritime-authority-and-imo-launch-regional-seafarer-certification-training --- Cite as: Regional seafarer certification training in West Africa. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/regional-seafarer-certification-training-in-west-africa