The Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional maritime cooperation, sustainability, and institutional effectiveness during its 19th Ordinary Session and 50th anniversary celebrations held in Banjul, The Gambia.

The high-level meeting brought together ministers of maritime transport, industry stakeholders, and representatives from international maritime institutions to reflect on five decades of collaboration and outline strategic priorities for the future of the region’s maritime sector.

Delivering remarks on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s delegation congratulated the newly elected Chair of MOWCA, The Gambia’s Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, and commended the organisation’s leadership for ongoing efforts to revitalize its operations.

Advancing Africa’s Maritime Future

Discussions focused on the evolving global maritime landscape, including decarbonisation, technological innovation, and automation in shipping.

Delegates emphasised the need for African countries to actively participate in shaping global maritime developments while strengthening regional collaboration.

Participants highlighted the importance of safe and secure maritime domains to support trade, offshore energy development, fisheries, and the growth of the blue economy.

Enhanced cooperation in maritime security, information sharing, and capacity building was identified as essential to achieving these goals.

Strengthening Regional Connectivity

Ghana outlined ongoing investments in port modernization, maritime administration reforms, and seafarer development, aimed at promoting safe, secure, and sustainable shipping.

The delegation also announced plans to introduce coastal transport services linking Accra, Lomé, Cotonou, and Lagos to improve regional trade and connectivity, with potential expansion across MOWCA member states.

Collaboration as a Strategic Priority

Delegates underscored the importance of collective action in addressing shared maritime challenges.

Member states were encouraged to harmonise policies, pool resources, and strengthen regional institutions to build a more efficient and resilient maritime transport system.

Key areas identified for collaboration included green port initiatives, maritime education and training, adoption of emerging technologies, and environmental protection.

Institutional Sustainability and Governance

Ministers also discussed measures to improve the financial sustainability and operational effectiveness of MOWCA, including the need for member states to fulfill their financial obligations to support the organization’s activities.

Discussions further addressed governance and investment proposals within the region, with delegates calling for transparency, equitable participation, and thorough technical review processes to ensure balanced benefits for all member countries.

Looking Ahead

As MOWCA commemorates its golden jubilee, participants expressed optimism that the milestone would usher in a new phase of innovation, unity, and strategic action for maritime development in West and Central Africa.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by member states to work collaboratively to strengthen maritime transport a sector that remains critical to global trade and Africa’s economic growth while creating sustainable employment opportunities across the region.