RusselSmith in Discussions with Ghana Maritime Authority to Introduce Advanced Boat Manufacturing Technology

RusselSmith and the Ghana Maritime Authority

RusselSmith executives recently met with the leadership of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) to explore collaborative opportunities that could transform maritime manufacturing across West Africa.

Kayode Adeleke, CEO of RusselSmith, and Madhu Madathil, COO of Advanced Manufacturing, held strategic discussions with Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali (Naval Capt Rtd), Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, focusing on the potential introduction of innovative 3D boat manufacturing technology to Ghana’s maritime sector.

Ghana’s position as a key maritime hub in West Africa – with significant ocean frontage, active port infrastructure, and extensive inland waterway systems, presents unique opportunities for deploying advanced manufacturing solutions that support safer, more efficient, and sustainable maritime operations.

The discussions centered on how large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) technology can address critical challenges in Ghana’s maritime sector, including:

  • Local production of maritime vessels: Reducing dependence on imported boats and vessel components
  • Rapid prototyping and customization: Enabling tailored solutions for specific maritime applications
  • Supply chain resilience: Shortening lead times and minimizing logistics complexities
  • Sustainability: Reducing material waste and transportation-related carbon emissions

Through RusselSmith’s partnership with CEAD, a global leader in large-format 3D printing technology, the company has access to proven capabilities in maritime applications. CEAD’s Maritime Application Center has successfully developed large-format 3D printing of complete boat hulls for demanding maritime applications, including workboats and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs).

RusselSmith’s Flexcube 3D printing and machining solution from CEAD can produce end-use maritime components with:

  • Shorter production timelines compared to traditional boat building methods
  • Design flexibility for customized vessel configurations
  • Material efficiency that reduces waste and costs
  • Local manufacturing that strengthens regional supply chains

Maritime Infrastructure and Operational Excellence

The Ghana Maritime Authority, operating under the Ministry of Transport, is responsible for regulating maritime activities, ensuring safety of navigation in inland waterways, and coordinating functions related to shipping operations throughout Ghana’s maritime jurisdiction.

This proposed collaboration, supported by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), marks a significant step toward modernising Ghana’s inland water transport and protecting the country’s natural environment. It aligns with Ghana’s broader maritime development objectives and RusselSmith’s commitment to building partnerships that strengthen Africa’s critical infrastructure capabilities.

The Director-General of GMA, Dr Kamal-Deen Ali emphasised that the proposal by RusselSmith aligns with Ghana’s goal of becoming a leading “Blue Nation” by prioritising maritime safety and environmental sustainability.

“Ghana’s strategic position as a maritime hub presents unique opportunities to deploy advanced manufacturing solutions that support the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of maritime operations,” RusselSmith’s CEO, Kayode Adeleke, noted following the meeting.