African countries have mapped out practical measures they can take to advance the green transition of shipping on the continent, focusing on maritime governance, infrastructure development, and job creation.
More than 200 representatives from 35 nations gathered in Mombasa, Kenya on 6-7 February for a workshop to discuss these actions, and how to support the implementation of IMO's Revised Strategy for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships (IMO GHG Strategy) across the continent.
The event was organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in collaboration with the Kenyan Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, and in partnership with the Danish Maritime Authority.
In his opening statement, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez called for country and regional-level action for the IMO GHG Strategy to succeed: "The IMO's climate ambition is clear. The focus now should be on action and implementation, and IMO stands ready to support African Member States in their efforts."
Over two days of deliberations, delegates identified actionable steps that countries could take to:
- Increase ratification and implementation of MARPOL Annex VI (the IMO treaty regulating emissions from ships into air))
- Increase National Action Plans on GHG reduction;
- Advance sustainable port development;
- Accelerate alternative fuel production and availability;
- Create more green maritime jobs and identify green shipping investment opportunities; and
- Improve seafarer training
The outcome of discussions will be reflected in a workshop document summarizing identified challenges, recommendations and needs for assistance from African countries.
Leading role for Africa
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Hassan Ali Joho, Cabinet Secretary at the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs of Kenya, emphasized Africa's "leading role" in shaping the green transition in the Global South, as well as the benefits of greener shipping:
"Our ports, shipping routes, and maritime industries are integral to global trade and must evolve in alignment with the net-zero emissions target by 2050… By doing so, we can create green jobs, attract investments, and build resilient economies while addressing the pressing challenges of climate change."
Rikke Wetter Olufesen, Deputy Director General at the Danish Maritime Authority added: "I hope this conference will inspire and further accelerate the green transition of shipping in Africa through regional collaboration and partnerships."
The event was funded through a donation by the government of Denmark to the IMO GHG-TC Trust Fund. It builds on resolutions decided at the 7th Conference of the Association of African Maritime Administrators (AAMA) Conference held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in November 2024.
In the margins the conference, a national workshop was held to support Kenya with the continuing development of its NAP through the GreenVoyage2050 programme.
