TheCable

The first summit on maritime security in Africa will hold in Lome, capital of Togo in October.

The summit is to be hosted by the Togolese President, Faure Gnassingbe.

Faced with certain acts of banditry; including piracy, illegal fishing and dumping of toxic waste in the water, Gnassingbe acknowledged the need for countries to unite to stop factors hindering the development of Africa.

“Of the 54 African countries, 37 have openings to the sea. The traffic of goods is more than 75 percent between Africa and other continents,” the organisers of the summit said in a statement.

“There is also the issue of the thousands of men, women and children, wanting to leave Africa for a better life elsewhere but their hopes are buried in the Mediterranean.

“The summit on maritime security and development in Africa will take strong and encouraging decisions to restrict the scope of bandits operating with impunity in African waters and the indulgence of human trafficking through smugglers.

“Many dignitaries will be in attendance and plans have been put in place to ensure the safety and care of participants.

“Beyond security and economic issues, the Lomé summit will provide an opportunity for Togo to mark her comeback to the forefront of the international scene.”