India facilitates repatriation of 9 Seafarers stranded In Ghana

The High Commission of India in Ghana has successfully facilitated the repatriation of nine Indian crew members of M/V Rahaf Moon, who had been stranded in Ghana for some time. The High Commission informed in a social media post that the repatriation was done via Accra International Airport with active support and close cooperation of Ghana Maritime Authority, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and International Transport Workers Federation. It said the successful repatriation reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the safety, welfare, and well-being of Indian nationals in foreign lands and high seas.
However, the High Commission did not disclose how long the seafarers had remained stranded in Ghanaian waters, it described the operation as another demonstration of India’s commitment to protecting its nationals overseas. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in maritime administration, capacity building and training programmes aimed at enhancing skills development and improving the efficiency of the maritime and port sectors.
The latest rescue adds to a series of humanitarian interventions undertaken by the Indian High Commission and Ghanaian maritime authorities over the years. Between 2017 and 2019, at least 16 Indian seafarers have been stranded in Ghanaian territorial waters weith records of rescued and repatriation through joint efforts involving the Indian High Commission, Ghanaian authorities and maritime partners. In one such operation in 2019, five Indian crew members stranded at the Port of Takoradi were successfully repatriated after sustained diplomatic intervention by the High Commission.