Africa Maritime Body Resolves on Maritime Reforms and Sustainability
AAMAchairman CPA Justus Omae Nyarandi addressing delegates in Monrovia Liberia. (Photo/ Courtesy),
By Mbungu Harrison
Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com
Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) has stressed that Africa must take charge of its maritime destiny by strengthening governance, embracing technology, and unlocking the potential of the blue economy.
AAMA through its chairman CPA Justus Omae Nyarandi, called for urgent, united action across the continent’s maritime sector.
He was speaking during the official opening of the 8th AAMA Conference at the Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, Liberia, while he represented the Government of Kenya and delivered a powerful address on behalf of President Dr. William Ruto.
“This conference is not just a meeting; it is a call to action,It is a platform to share best practices, forge partnerships, and commit to actionable strategies that will shape Africa’s maritime future,” he said.
Themed “Safeguarding Our Ocean, Promoting Decarbonization in Shipping and Exploring Africa’s Blue Economy Potential,” the conference brought together maritime leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Africa and beyond.
Nyarandi praised the government and people of Liberia for hosting the event, describing it as a maritime pioneer.
“Liberia, a nation with an illustrious maritime history, continues to inspire the continent with its commitment to the maritime cause. We are deeply grateful for the warm welcome to this beautiful city of Monrovia.”
He acknowledged progress made by AAMA since its first meeting in Ghana, but warned that serious challenges still existed, though must be dealt with.
These include piracy, Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, lack of seafarer training opportunities, and the slow uptake of the blue economy across the continent.
“Our oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers are not merely bodies of water; they are the lifelines for our continent’s prosperity, food security, and energy future.”
He urged member states to act on four key areas to enhance maritime security and governance by improving domain awareness and conducting joint security exercises; invest in technology and capacity building – including digital ports, vessel tracking systems, and skilled human capital.
Harmonize legal and trade frameworks – to fully leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA); and promote environmental sustainability – by aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) emissions reduction targets and preserving marine ecosystems.
“The future of maritime administration is digital,” he said. “We must modernize, simplify our systems, and ensure our ports are competitive.”
Nyarandi noted that during Kenya’s tenure as AAMA chair, the organization has achieved key milestones including securing permanent office space, opening a bank account, and promoting cooperation among member states.
“Despite the absence of a sponsor, the turnout at this conference shows our collective commitment to driving change in Africa’s maritime space,” he added.
Citing the African Union’s Agenda 2063, Nyarandi said Africa’s blue economy holds immense promise for inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
“In the spirit of Harambee-let us pull together to become a force in global maritime conversations, both in business and regulation.”
The AAMA Conference resolved discussions on decarbonization, climate change, maritime safety, trade facilitation, and capacity development. They also resolved to strengthen regulations.
The member states resolved to develop a strategic action plan aimed at strengthening maritime safety and security across the region.
AAMA adopted an action plan for the safety of domestic ferries and committed to the implementation of the IMO Model.
Regulations on Domestic Ferry Safety (Resolution MSC.518(105))
The goal of this action plan is to provide a clear, actionable roadmap that outlines the steps required to enhance the safety of domestic ferry operations throughout Africa.
Member states are encouraged to seek support from international partners and donors for the development and implementation of maritime safety regulations under existing partnership frameworks.
Additionally, member states should actively work on implementing corrective action plans arising from the IMO member state audit scheme (IMSAS) and are encouraged to request technical assistance from IMO where challenges persist.
The players in the AAMA agreed to proactively support the work of IMO, IMLI, and WMU by contributing African best practices and lessons learned to global initiatives that aim to improve the safety of domestic ferries and maritime operations more broadly.
