On the occasion of the World Maritime Day 2018, Timothy Walker, Senior Maritime Security Researcher at ISS Pretoria, analyzes key issues affecting Africa in terms of its ocean and maritime security development. Mr. Walker refers, among others, to the exploitation of marine and seabed resources, sustainable fisheries and maritime security.
According to Mr. Walker, the 27th September offers an annual opportunity to critically reflect on global progress and challenges and appreciate the inherent maritime nature of our societies, economies and the planet itself.
The IMO’s role in creating safer shipping and improved navigation must be assessed against the backdrop of the high-level meetings currently taking place. These meetings will determine the future governance and health of our seas and oceans.
World Maritime Day is not just a celebration. It is an opportunity to redress power imbalances in the governance of the seas and oceans concerning gender, coastal and landlocked states, and between Africa and the rest of the world.
