The headquarters of the Economic Community of West African States became a key meeting point on 24–25 March 2026, bringing together African stakeholders to discuss decarbonization and the future of maritime transport. The Abuja-based institution hosted a continental validation workshop focused on the Green Ports Handbook for Africa, the development of a shared African position on greenhouse gas emissions, and the implementation of the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter.
The African Union Commission and ECOWAS jointly organized the workshop, with support from partners like Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit. They brought together institutional leaders, technical experts, and industry players from across Africa’s maritime sector. The goal was clear: to push forward maritime decarbonization while shaping a more sustainable path for maritime transport on the continent.
In response to climate concerns and global commitments such as the Paris Agreement and standards set by the International Maritime Organization, several African ports have already started making changes. Some introduced shore power systems, installed renewable energy like solar-powered terminals, and began tracking emissions more closely.
Despite these steps, progress has not been consistent across the continent. Recent assessments showed that about 75% of African port authorities have not updated their regulations on alternative fuels. Fewer than 20% of ports are ready for hydrogen or ammonia bunkering, and less than 15% of personnel have received proper training on low or zero carbon fuels. These gaps continue to show the difference between policy intentions and actual readiness.
Following recommendations from African Ministers of Transport, the African Union Commission launched a programme to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and speed up decarbonization in the maritime sector. As part of this effort, it developed a continental handbook on green ports to guide sustainable practices, improve resilience, and support low carbon development.
Another major focus of the workshop was the validation of a shared African position on maritime decarbonization and emissions reduction. This effort aimed to align African voices in global discussions, especially within the International Maritime Organization, as environmental regulations continue to tighten.
The discussions focused on protecting Africa’s interests, ensuring a fair transition, and securing the funding and technology needed to support this shift. With over 90% of Africa’s external trade moving by sea, participants also considered how to stay competitive while adapting to stricter global standards.
Participants reviewed and validated the handbook designed to help transform African ports into more environmentally responsible hubs. They also emphasized the need to ensure that the green transition supports economic growth rather than limiting it. The outcome is expected to guide coordinated action across the continent, helping balance climate goals with development needs.
Beyond environmental issues, the workshop also marked progress in implementing the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter. Although adopted in Kampala in 2010, the Charter only came into force on 14 August 2025 after Uganda submitted the fifteenth ratification.
This development reflected years of effort to strengthen maritime governance in Africa and raise the importance of maritime transport in the continent’s development plans.
With the Charter now active, attention has shifted to implementation. Stakeholders moved beyond policy discussions and focused on practical steps, including reforms, investments, and stronger institutions. The Abuja workshop provided a space for countries and partners to agree on how to move forward.
Earlier in February 2026, the African Union Commission and GIZ held a virtual meeting with stakeholders to assess progress and identify next steps. The insights from that session helped shape the discussions and outcomes of the Abuja workshop.
Participants highlighted key challenges such as aligning national policies, building institutional capacity, securing funding, and improving coordination among countries. They agreed that addressing these issues is essential for turning the Charter into a tool for real change in the maritime sector.
Hosting the workshop in Abuja sent a clear message that Africa is ready to play a stronger role in global maritime discussions while advancing its own transition.
With growing investment needs and changing global standards, participants recognized that working together across the continent is no longer optional but necessary. The workshop may serve as an important step toward building a more sustainable and competitive maritime sector in Africa.
source:maritimafrica.com
African Maritime Council