Second Lieutenant Said Lavani, the Comoros International Liaison Officer at the Regional Maritime Information Fusion Center (RMIFC) in Madagascar, is actively engaged in enhancing maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean. As a newly inducted alumnus of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, his efforts focus on fostering regional cooperation, intelligence-sharing, and unified security strategies to combat piracy and smuggling.
In a recent interview, Lavani elaborated on significant initiatives, particularly two regional centers established for maritime safety. The Regional Information Center (RCOI) in Madagascar collects and disseminates maritime intelligence, while the Regional Center for Operational Coordination at Sea (RCOC) in Seychelles facilitates real-time security responses. These centers encourage collaboration among liaison officers from various member states, ensuring efficient communication between national authorities and regional frameworks. Lavani’s role encompasses engaging with Comorian authorities regarding maritime security and coordinating efforts with nations like Madagascar, Mauritius, and Kenya.
Another crucial initiative Lavani is involved in is the Djibouti Code of Conduct, a framework aimed at building capacities and enhancing communication among member states to tackle piracy and maritime crimes. Each nation designates a focal point to manage communications and ensure timely information sharing when issues arise, such as illegal fishing or maritime pollution. Lavani aids in coordinating these national efforts, emphasizing the importance of regional security cooperation.
Recognizing the overlap between the RCOI-RCOC framework and the Djibouti Code of Conduct, there have been moves to integrate these initiatives. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was recently signed during a ministerial meeting in Mauritius, advocating for a cohesive regional maritime security strategy, minimizing redundancy in efforts.
Reflecting on the Western Indian Ocean Maritime Security Seminar held in February 2025, Lavani noted how it enhanced his understanding of the maritime security landscape. The seminar allowed for networking with colleagues from various regions, reinforcing the idea that maritime threats are interconnected and require cross-regional collaboration. He pointed out that better alignment among nations involved in the Djibouti Code of Conduct and the Safety for Africa Initiative represents a crucial step towards a unified security approach, moving away from fragmented strategies.
Cleary, strengthening regional policies to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing emerged as a pressing concern. Lavani emphasized that many coastal communities depend on marine resources, highlighting the need for strict regulations and surveillance to protect these livelihoods. Technological advancements such as satellite tracking and unmanned surveillance are also pivotal in enhancing maritime domain awareness.
Lavani views his role in these initiatives as both a privilege and a responsibility. He emphasizes that maritime security significantly impacts economic development, environmental sustainability, and regional stability. His involvement allows him to bring valuable knowledge back to Comoros, ensuring that the interests of smaller island nations are represented in regional policies. Looking ahead, he is committed to strengthening partnerships that will bolster maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean and beyond, aiming for a safer maritime environment for future generations.
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