By: Fatou Krubally
Banjul this week became the centre of regional maritime diplomacy as delegates from 20 countries gathered for the 19th General Assembly of the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), marking the organisation’s 50th anniversary and a renewed push for safer and more efficient shipping across the sub-region.
The high-level meeting, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, brought together ministers, maritime experts and technical officials to review policies on maritime safety, regional transport, environmental protection and institutional reforms.
Opening the experts’ session, MOWCA Secretary-General Dr Paul Adalikusa said the strong attendance reflected growing commitment among member states to cooperation in the sector.
“This is historic,” he told delegates, noting that more countries were expected to join the deliberations.
He thanked the Gambian government for hosting the gathering and facilitating the organisation’s return to regular statutory meetings.
According to him, the session would examine key programmes including the proposed Regional Maritime Development Bank, contributions to the organisation’s budget and the operationalisation of the Regional Maritime Fund.
Delegates are also expected to review policies on inland waterway safety and maritime human resource development through international partnerships.
Chairperson of the Committee of Experts Nykou Christian Armel emphasised the technical role of the body in guiding ministerial decisions, describing the meeting as essential for strengthening institutional credibility and regional integration. He urged member states to maintain cooperation in addressing emerging maritime challenges.
Representing the host government, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure Samba C. Mballow said the discussions would focus on maritime security, infrastructure development, capacity building and administrative reforms.
He noted that improved coordination could unlock investment opportunities and economic growth across West and Central Africa, particularly through development of inland waterways and port services.
Officials said the assembly will also review audit findings, consider peace and security initiatives linked to maritime activities and prepare recommendations for adoption by ministers.
The week-long event will culminate in the organisation’s anniversary celebration, expected to be attended by Adama Barrow.
Delegates are expected to conclude the session with policy proposals aimed at improving shipping safety, facilitating trade and strengthening cooperation in regional waters — a move stakeholders believe could shape the future of maritime transport across the sub-region.