TheCable

Dakuku Peterside, former director-general of the Nigerian Maritime and Safety Agency (NIMASA), says sustainable development of the African maritime sector is crucial to unlocking the potential of the continent and making it a huge contributor to the global economy.

According to a statement by his media team on Wednesday, Peterside spoke at the agenda for African Development Senior Managers forum at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport in Alexandria, Egypt.

The maritime expert focused on environmental management systems in African seaports.

He said Africa accounts for less than 3 percent of global trade and just about 15 percent intra-African trade compared to Europe (68 percent), Asia (58 percent), North America (48 percent), and Latin America (20 percent).

The ex-NIMASA boss said African leaders under the auspices of African Union (AU) must quickly activate the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aimed at boosting intra-African trade.

According to Peterside, with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) estimating that the AfCFTA could boost intra-African trade by up to 33 percent and cut the trade deficit by 51 percent, time was of the essence in promoting trade.

“This increase in trade will lead to higher demand for maritime transport, create new market opportunities and spur investment in port infrastructure,” he said.

“Developing a sustainable African maritime industry entails concise policy and sustained commitment to implementation, governance structure, robust monitoring and enforcement regime.

“It will also require conducive operating environment, investment in technology, digitalisation, automation and innovation, among others.

“It is a complex challenge but with collective effort and innovative solutions, such as an articulated road map, effective governance structure, digitalisation, decarbonisation, sustainable energy, environmental sustainability and international partnership.

“It is possible to minimise the negative impacts of maritime activities on the environment while fostering economic growth.

“These keys are interconnected and must be pursued collectively to unlock the full potential of a sustainable African maritime sector.”

Peterside added that achieving a sustainable African maritime industry requires a holistic approach and long-term commitment not just from governments and industry leaders but the society at large.