African Nations Chart Course for a Sustainable Maritime Future
African maritime leaders have reached a consensus on pivotal actions to secure a sustainable future for the region’s maritime sector, aligning their goals with global advancements in technology, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
These commitments were formalized at the 7th Association of African Maritime Administrators (AAMA) Conference, held from November 29 to December 1 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The event was inaugurated by the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Doto Mashaka Biteko.
During his address, IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez underscored the importance of collaboration, stating, “At the heart of our collective work lies the IMO’s unwavering support for Africa’s maritime ambitions. From advancing the decarbonization of shipping to enhancing maritime safety and addressing the scourge of piracy, our shared agenda demands a united approach.”
Key Resolutions for a Sustainable Maritime Agenda
The conference concluded with Member States committing to six strategic priorities:
Maritime Decarbonization
- Actively participate in IMO discussions to ensure fair implementation of the 2023 IMO Strategy for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions from Ships.
- Accelerate the ratification of MARPOL Annex VI for Member States yet to do so.
- Formulate national action plans to meet treaty obligations and advance decarbonization efforts.
Capacity Development
- Create a workforce training roadmap tailored to emerging technological advancements in the maritime sector.
Sustainable Maritime Financing
- Establish a framework for sustainable funding, including preparing bankable proposals for financial institutions and improving the capacity to manage such financing effectively.
Maritime Security and Safety
- Develop and implement a regional strategic action plan to strengthen safety and security.
- Enforce IMO Model Regulations on Domestic Ferry Safety and share regional best practices to support IMO, IMLI, and WMU projects.
- Address gaps identified in IMO audits and seek the necessary technical assistance.
Governance and Trade Facilitation
- Strengthen maritime governance by drafting and implementing National Maritime Transport Policies with IMO support.
- Adopt the Maritime Single Window system to streamline trade and commerce in the region.
Gender and Diversity
- Introduce a gender and diversity action plan to promote inclusivity across the maritime sector.
Implementation and Collaboration
The AAMA will establish dedicated working groups to advance these resolutions and provide regular progress updates to Member States.
Held under the theme “Navigating the Future of Africa’s Maritime Sector: Collaborating on Technology and Innovation to Enhance Safety, Security, Decarbonization, and the Marine Environment for a Sustainable Future,” the conference emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships. The event aimed to align regional initiatives with the 2050 Africa Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS 2050) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
By fostering collaboration among African nations, the IMO, and other key stakeholders, the conference set the foundation for actionable roadmaps that will drive sustainable growth and innovation in Africa’s maritime industry.
