South Africa’s election to the council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has been heralded as a progressive step towards realising the country’s goals of playing an active role in the global maritime sector.
“We stand to benefit immensely as the African continent from South Africa’s election to the IMO council,” said deputy minister of transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga.
“This is where critical decisions are made with regard to global maritime affairs, ranging from the Oceans Economy to rescue initiatives and safety and security matters at sea,” said Chikunga.
The election comes as South Africa embarks on a new ambitious chapter of unlocking the country’s maritime potential through the Blue Oceans Economy strategy and Operation Phakisa. “With a coastline totalling 3900 kilometres, we believe there’s plenty of untapped potential at sea. Through Operation Phakisa we have identified projects that will ensure that the Oceans Economy is realised.
An estimated 80 000 vessels pass through South African ports annually of which a large number are laden tankers. “South Africa’s salvage capacity and capabilities are recognised globally as being the best due to reliability and recorded successes,” she said. “Building on these capabilities is a key part of the strategy going forward.”
Chikunga said the voice of African countries on maritime issues - the SADC region in particular - would be emboldened by South Africa’s presence in the influential global council of the United Nations multilateral body.
