Illegal fishing major threat to Africa's maritime industry

The third annual conference of the Association of African Maritime Administrations is currently underway in Abuja, Nigeria, building on the progress made in previous conferences held in Mombasa, Kenya, and South Africa. The focus of this year's conference is on addressing the challenges facing Africa's maritime sector, particularly the need for capacity building in both human resources and institutions. William Azuh, Head of Africa section, Technical cooperation division, International Maritime Organization, highlighted the critical importance of enhancing human and institutional capacity to effectively implement international maritime instruments. Azuh emphasized the need for more training and retraining to bridge the existing gaps in the sector. One of the major challenges facing Africa's maritime sector is the illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities that are rampant in the region. Azuh pointed out the lack of maritime security as a key issue, with many illegal vessels operating unchecked along the African coastline. Addressing IUU fishing is crucial not only for the protection of marine resources but also for ensuring the economic benefits of the sector reach the rural poor who often rely on fishing for their livelihoods. Furthermore, Azuh stressed the untapped opportunities in Africa's maritime sector, particularly in the blue economy. He highlighted the vast potential of the seas and oceans for sustainable use, including oil and gas exploration, aquaculture, fisheries, and other industries. However, Azuh noted that Africa has been 'sea blind' for too long, focusing predominantly on the oil sector and neglecting the vast opportunities lying beneath the surface. In order to unlock these opportunities and facilitate economic growth, Azuh emphasized the importance of integration and streamlining processes at ports to improve the flow of goods and services across borders. Efficient travel and clearing times at ports are essential for promoting trade and commerce within the region. The simplification of border checks and the establishment of a free flow of goods and people within the subregion can lead to significant economic benefits, ultimately improving the lives of people both in urban centers and rural areas. As the conference progresses, stakeholders are expected to work towards concrete solutions to address the challenges facing Africa's maritime industry. The focus on capacity building, combating IUU fishing, and promoting economic integration are key themes that will shape the future of the sector in the region.