Lieutenant Commander Kofi Tabi Ankobiah is a Chartered Naval Architect and Senior Marine Engineering professional with over 13 years of experience in maritime project management, ship design and fleet operations. His career uniquely bridges military experience and commercial innovation, combining leadership in the Ghana Navy with consultancy for private maritime firms.
He is currently the Lead Naval Architect at the Ghana Navy Shipyard, where he directs complex dry-docking and refurbishment projects, ensuring compliance with class and flag state regulations. He has led the design and construction of the Ghana Navy’s first indigenous fibreglass boat, and his consultancy work includes specialised engineering solutions for ballast water system conversions as well as strategic advice for major offshore operations, such as the wet towage of mobile offshore drilling units.
Kofi’s professional interests centre on sustainable maritime engineering practices, decarbonisation technologies for future assets and the emerging maritime cybersecurity domain. He is a Chartered Engineer registered with the UK Engineering Council, a Fellow of the International Association of Marine Consultants and Surveyors. He is also a Professional Member of both the Royal Institution of Naval Architects, the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology UK and, an Associate Member of the Society of Offshore Marine Warranty Surveyors.
Beyond his core expertise, Lt Cdr Ankobiah is a STEM advocate with advanced knowledge in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer programming. He is actively exploring the application of these technologies to enhance maritime safety and security, with a specific focus on developing robust, AI-driven frameworks for critical maritime infrastructure and autonomous systems. As a public speaker, he has shared his insights at platforms including TEDx Newcastle, Plymouth University’s REACH UP and the Africa Energy Technology Conference.
