The Federal government is championing the course of shipping decarbonisation as means to reduce emissions in African maritime industry in order to improve the competitiveness of the continent’s shipping routes.
Speaking while declaring open “Africa Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonization” on Monday in Abuja, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola said “we gather not just to discuss challenges, but to forge solutions that will propel Africa towards a sustainable and prosperous blue economy.
“The global shipping industry is at a pivotal juncture as the International Maritime Organisation (IMQ) is set to finalize and adopt the policy framework on the Revised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Strategy and the Basket of Midterm Measures by this autumn.
“The progression of negotiations and research work done so far suggests Africa along with most developing countries will be mostly impacted due to the transport cost increase as result of the energy transition to near-zero and zero emissions for shipping sector.
“You may wish to know that, our contribution to the global fleet is below 2%, and as such, our dependency on imports from other parts of the world makes this transition an important debate we must not shy away from”.
Oyetola explained that “trade is critical to our place in the world and with over 90% of global trade facilitated by maritime transport, reducing GHG emissions from shipping is not just an environmental necessity, but an economic imperative.
“As IMO advances its regulatory framework on decarbonisation, Africa must ensure that its voice is heard, and its interests safeguarded in shaping policies that impact our economies and livelihoods”.
The Minister stated that as a coastal continent with 38 coastal nations, “we stand a chance to explore opportunities that this energy transition offers our region by engaging the Global North to partner with Africa to utilize the need to develop our ports as a launch pad for catalyzing the industrialization of Africa.
“We must carefully develop meaningful discussions and partnerships that do not set us back to extractive partnerships but a respectful approach to building our region and strengthening our position in the world.
“This will not come easy, and that is the essence of this summit. This event is one of many intended to unify our efforts towards a greater Africa.
“Africa’s maritime sector is uniquely positioned to leverage its strategic geographic advantage, renewable energy potential, and growing port infrastructure to become a global leader in green shipping:
“However, this requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders be it as public and private sector players and /or development partners to align investments with sustainability and economic growth,” he stated.
The Minister further noted that decarbonizing the shipping industry must be pursued in a manner that is just and equitable, ensuring that no African nation is left behind.
“Shipping decarbonization also goes beyond ships, it touches various sectors, such as transport, environment, climate change, trade and investment, to mention a few.
“While we recognize the need for ambitious climate action, we must also acknowledge the challenges faced by developing economies, including access to technology and capital, energy poverty, inefficient food systems, of which food insecurity is chief, as well as capacity building amongst others. The principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities must be upheld as we navigate this transition” Oyetola emphasized.
In his welcome address, the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola explained that Shipping Decarbonization refers to the efforts to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from the shipping industry, which is a significant contributor to global emissions.
“The shipping industry accounts for approximately 3% of global GHG emissions contributing to climate change.
“The environmental concerns arising from these emissions have created a sense of urgency, driving the world to focus on shipping decarbonisation—and Africa must not be left behind” he stated.
Mebereola further explained that decarbonization supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action).
“This African Strategy Summit has brought together experts, regulators, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss best practices, share knowledge, and exchange experiences that will ensure a just and equitable shipping decarbonization in Africa by promoting sustainable maritime development’.
On his part, the Liberian Representative to IMO, Dr Harry Conway said “you cannot trade without using a vessel. 80% of global trade is by sea, and Africa is 90% dependent on sea borne trade,” urging African countries to be part of the decision making body at the IMO in order have their needs heard.
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