African nations have outlined concrete steps to advance the green transition in shipping, with a focus on maritime governance, infrastructure development, and job creation.
On 6-7 February, more than 200 representatives from 35 countries convened in Mombasa, Kenya, for a workshop aimed at supporting the implementation of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Revised Strategy for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships (IMO GHG Strategy) across the continent.
The event was hosted by the IMO in collaboration with Kenya’s Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, and in partnership with the Danish Maritime Authority.
In his opening remarks, 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,” he said.
During the two-day discussions, delegates identified key measures for advancing green shipping, including:
- Increasing the ratification and implementation of MARPOL Annex VI, which regulates air emissions from ships.
- Expanding National Action Plans for greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction.
- Promoting sustainable port development.
- Accelerating the production and availability of alternative fuels.
- Creating more green maritime jobs and identifying investment opportunities in green shipping.
- Enhancing training programs for seafarers.
The insights and recommendations from the workshop will be compiled into a document summarizing challenges, proposed solutions, and areas where African countries require support, according to IMO’s statement.
