Two weeks ago, Uganda ratified the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter, making it the 15th African Union (AU) member to do so. This ratification meets the threshold required for the charter’s official implementation in August, a significant milestone for Africa’s maritime sector after 15 years of development. The timing is critical, as the global shipping industry faces unprecedented disruptions, particularly impacting African nations reliant on the Suez Canal for trade, leading to significant cargo delays and port congestion in countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania.
The high shipping costs to Africa have been a considerable barrier to trade, prompting several countries to attempt establishing national ocean carriers. The implementation of the Maritime Transport Charter aims to streamline short-sea shipping across Africa and support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which promotes seamless trade among African nations. A key challenge has been the absence of a harmonized maritime transport protocol, which the charter seeks to address.
Brian Gicheru from TME Africa interviewed Dr. Raissa Julie Ada Allogo, a Senior Policy Officer at the African Union Commission, regarding the significance of the charter. Dr. Allogo highlighted that maritime transport is vital for approximately 90% of Africa’s foreign trade, involving an array of goods from raw materials to manufactured products. The imminent enactment of the charter marks a transition from a fragmented maritime system to a more integrated and strategic approach to trade and sustainability.
Importantly, the Revised Charter recognizes the transit rights of landlocked countries, ensuring they have equitable access to coastal ports and streamlined transit procedures. This recognition is crucial for integrating these countries into Africa’s maritime transport network. The charter not only facilitates commercial logistics but also promotes cross-border connectivity.
While several African nations are developing national shipping lines, the AU envisions a harmonized maritime framework. The charter aims to coordinate maritime activities across member states, taking into account their diverse capacities and interests and encouraging regional cooperation among shipping companies.
Financial challenges, especially regarding port upgrades and infrastructure development, are addressed within the charter. The AU encourages resource mobilization and continental cooperation mechanisms to secure funding for necessary reforms.
Moreover, a pressing issue for Africa’s maritime sector is capacity building, particularly in maritime education. The AU is emphasizing the need for training institutions aligned with international standards and partnerships to enhance opportunities for African seafarers. The charter promotes the creation of shipping companies and aims to make the maritime sector more inclusive by integrating women and youth.
Through the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter, the AU aspires to establish Africa as a competent and competitive maritime power globally, fostering a more sustainable and integrated maritime industry across the continent.
