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TODAY’S BULLETIN OF MARITIME NEWS

We wish our readers a peaceful enjoyable Workers Day for Thursday           1 May 2025

Click on headline to go direct to story: use the BACK key to return.  

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FIRST VIEW: MMIPV Fleet Expands: SAS Adam Kok III Joins South Africa’s Coastal Defence

In a significant boost to South Africa’s maritime security, the South African Navy has formally named its third Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel (MMIPV), SAS Adam Kok III (P1573), during a ceremony at the Durban Salisbury Island naval base on 25 April 2025. Built by Damen Shipyards Cape Town under Project Biro, these modern patrol vessels are now based at Naval Base Durban, strengthening the Navy’s ability to safeguard coastal waters, combat illegal activities at sea, and support regional maritime stability. Read more…

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IMO tightens safety regulations for ammonium nitrate transport

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has taken a significant step in enhancing maritime safety with its latest amendment to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. The regulatory change, which affects Clause 7.6.2.8.4, aims to improve the safe transportation of ammonium nitrate by sea, a compound widely used in fertilizers and explosives. Welcoming this decision, the global cargo handling association ICHCA International (ICHCA) emphasized the amendments importance in mitigating the risks associated with ammonium nitrate shipping.  Read more…

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Liner Shipping Pumps $1.1 Trillion into U.S. Economy, Supports 6.4 Million Jobs – New S&P Global Report

A newly released report from S&P Global has underscored the vast economic footprint of the liner shipping industry in the United States, revealing it supports more than 6.4 million American jobs and contributes over $1.1 trillion to the nation’s GDP. Published on 28 April by the World Shipping Council*, the report provides an in-depth, independent analysis of liner shipping’s economic impact across employment, trade, wages, sales, and tax revenues. Liner shipping handles 64.4% of U.S. seaborne trade by value, making it the backbone of ocean-based transport for both imports and exports. The industry transports nearly…..  Read more…

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Trade priorities: Francophone countries reflect strategy

Representatives from French-speaking African and Indian Ocean WTO Members met for a regional consultation in Yaoundé, Cameroon, from 28 to 30 April, with the aim of defining their trade priorities one year ahead of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14), which is also scheduled to be held in Yaoundé in March 2026. In the words of Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, host of MC14: “MC14 must serve as a launch pad for a better future.”  Jointly organised by the WTO Secretariat and the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) at the request of the French-speaking countries represented this consultation entitled ‘On the road to the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference’.   Read more…

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WHARF TALK: HMS BEAGLE – 31st May 1836 to 18th June 1836

In the history of the opening up of the modern world, and the coming of the age of scientific exploration and discovery, Cape Town has been at the forefront of that greatest epoch of history. It was a time when the British Empire was expanding, and the Cape Colony was the naval staging post for the arrival, and departure, of those Royal Navy warships that had been set up to do just that, explore and discover the unknown world, or make more sense of the recently discovered world. It has to be said that the Royal Navy commanders that were at the forefront of this expansion of knowledge were great leaders, to a man, and numbered amongst their august ranks the likes of James Cook, Matthew Flinders, George Vancouver, William Bligh, Philip Carteret, Francis Beaufort, and Robert Fitzroy.   Read more…

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DP World Sokhna posts record throughput in Q1 2025 as citrus exports surge

Ain Sokhna, Egypt – 30 April 2025: DP World Sokhna has reported its highest-ever quarterly container volume, handling 285,000 TEUs in the first quarter of 2025 — a 26% increase over target and the strongest performance since the terminal began operations nearly two decades ago. The record-breaking throughput reflects both rising trade activity and Sokhna’s growing role as a strategic logistics hub on Egypt’s Red Sea coast. A key contributor to the growth was a significant rise in refrigerated cargo, particularly citrus exports, as Egypt continues to build its reputation as one of the world’s leading citrus exporters.  Read more…

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MSC Cruises South Africa celebrates the end of the summer 2024/2025 cruise season

MSC Cruises South Africa recently concluded its local summer cruise season, featuring MSC Musica. During the local season, which kicked off in November 2024, MSC Musica, the 3,200-passenger vessel, was a temporary home to over 90,000 passengers, and took guests to picturesque destinations in Mozambique, Reunion, Mauritius and Namibia. Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa says the company is pleased with the performance of the vessel, which attracted a good number of passengers, and the company looks forward with anticipation to the upcoming 2025/2026 season when guests will have the pleasure of voyaging on MSC Opera.    Read more…

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Maersk launches first integrated logistics hub in Senegal to bolster West African supply chains

Dakar, Senegal: Global shipping and logistics giant A.P. Moller – Maersk has officially opened a cutting-edge 10,000 square metre logistics hub in Senegal, marking a major step in its strategy to build robust, integrated supply chain infrastructure across West Africa. Strategically positioned between the Port of Dakar and the city’s industrial zone — both within 10 km — the new facility is designed to serve as a key distribution node for cargo destined for Senegal and neighbouring West African countries. Its proximity to port and industrial activity offers Maersk customers faster turnaround times, lower transport costs, and improved connectivity to end markets.  Read more…

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BAE Systems and Umoe Mandal sign agreement to deepen maritime collaboration

British defence giant BAE Systems and Norwegian shipbuilder Umoe Mandal have signed a new Collaboration Agreement aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation between the UK and Norway. The agreement was formalised during an industrial collaboration event held in Mandal, southern Norway, attended by government and defence sector representatives from both countries. The two companies already have a working relationship spanning over 25 years, with Umoe Mandal currently supplying major composite structures for the UK Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigate programme.  Read more…

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Inauguration of the African Space Agency

Africa’s space aspirations reached a significant milestone on 20 April with the inauguration of the African Space Agency (AfSA) at its headquarters in Egyptian Space City, Cairo. This event marked the culmination of efforts that began in January 2016, when the African Union Assembly adopted the African Space Policy and Strategy during its Twenty-sixth Ordinary Session, establishing the foundation for the continent’s coordinated approach to space activities.  Read more…

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UNCTAD launches first-ever country-level data on seaborne trade

UNCTAD, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, has released new seaborne trade data that, for the first time, offers country-level statistics, providing a clearer view of global maritime flows. Maritime transport remains the backbone of world trade, carrying more than 80% of goods traded globally by volume. It connects production hubs with consumers across continents, facilitating industrialization, driving economic growth, and creating millions of jobs worldwide. Over decades, seaborne trade has been shaped by major transformations – from the rise of containerisation and the growing prominence of developing economies, to shifts in global production and consumption patterns. Today, new forces such as digitalisation, geopolitics, and the urgency for sustainability and climate resilience are once again reshaping the industry.  Read more…

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WHARF TALK: AUV survey vessel – ARGEO VENTURE

South African ports get to host some of the world’s most beautiful vessels. Equally, they get to host some of the world’s ugliest vessels. Ugly, in terms of naval architecture, is a ‘Marmite’ subject, as beauty is very much in the eye of the beholder. Occasionally, a ‘Marmite’ vessel arrives that is not only a trendsetter in design, but has then been rebuilt to be a trendsetter in a completely different direction, and for a completely different purpose to that for which she was designed in the first instance. On 30th March, at 09:00 in the morning, the AUV survey vessel ‘Argeo Venture’ (IMO 9538086) arrived off Cape Town, from Walvis Bay in Namibia.  Read more…

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Massive Iranian port explosion linked to ballistic missile fuel

A massive explosion that ripped through a warehouse in the Iranian port of Shahid Rajee on Saturday is likely to have been the result of mishandling sodium perchlorate solid missile fuel intended for ballistic missiles. That’s the view of a global maritime risk management firm, according to a BBC report. Latest reports say the explosion has killed at least 60 people and injured more than 1200. The accident is reminiscent of the Beirut explosion on 4 August 2020, when 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate stored over a number of years in a warehouse, ignited, causing one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history.

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Angola to become major fertiliser exporter with new $2 billion ammonia and urea plant

“With a production capacity of 4,000 metric tons per day, Angola’s new fertiliser plant will reduce reliance on imports, create thousands of jobs, and transform the country into a major exporter to African markets — strengthening food security and boosting regional trade.” Read more…

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New fuel rules, new fleets: Shipping braces for a green transition

New IMO fuel intensity target set to reshape ship sales and fleet strategies: The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) latest environmental regulation, unveiled at the 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) meeting, is poised to bring major changes to the global shipping industry. Set to come into force no later than March 2027, the new fuel intensity target introduces a financial penalty system aimed at curbing the use of carbon-intensive fuels such as Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO). Under the forthcoming scheme, shipowners using cheaper, high-emission fuels will face financial penalties, with the collected funds directed into the ‘IMO Net-Zero Fund’ to support green shipping initiatives.  Read more…

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CMA CGM secures controlling stake in Santos Brasil in $2 billion deal

French shipping and logistics giant CMA CGM has finalised its acquisition of a controlling stake in Santos Brasil Participações S/A, strengthening its presence in South America’s largest port.  The $2 billion transaction, completed on 24 April 2025, increases CMA CGM’s shareholding to 51%, following regulatory approvals from Brazilian authorities. With this move, CMA CGM takes control of Tecon Santos, Brazil’s busiest container terminal, which handles 40% of the country’s container traffic. The terminal, located at the Port of Santos, has a current capacity of 2.5 million TEUs, with expansion plans to reach 3 million TEUs.    Read more…

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Reload Logistics report maps out future of Southern Africa’s Trade and Transport Corridors

Reload Logistics has released a forward-looking industry report titled ‘Unlocking Southern Africa’s Trade Potential in 2025 and Beyond,’ offering new insight into how infrastructure upgrades, digital innovation, and sustainability are reshaping regional logistics. The report highlights the growing importance of Southern Africa as a global supplier of critical minerals, such as cobalt and copper, which are essential for electric vehicle batteries and the broader shift toward clean energy. The region currently supplies around 30% of the world’s demand for these minerals, placing it at the center of global green transition efforts.   Read more…

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WHARF TALK: container ships – ONE RESOLUTION, ONE RESILIENCE

Not long ago there was great hand wringing over the fact that Durban and, especially, Cape Town were considered to be the worst performing container ports on Earth. For shipowners it meant having their vessels languishing out at anchor awaiting a berth, whilst Transnet container terminals operated at productivity levels that were simply abysmal. When they finally got alongside to start their discharge and loading sequences, the time alongside was measured in days, even weeks at times, rather than hours as happens in equivalent container ports in Asia and Europe. Despite Transnet attempting to turn around that poor performance record, things have only improved slightly, but it would appear that the dreadful performance and productivity issues are back again, especially at Cape Town.  Read more…

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INTERCARGO hails ILO recognition of seafarers as key workers under Maritime Labour Convention

The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has welcomed a landmark decision by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to formally recognise seafarers as key workers under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) — a move hailed as a pivotal moment in advancing maritime labour rights and ensuring the welfare of those at sea. The long-awaited recognition strengthens the legal and institutional framework surrounding seafarers’ access to medical care, freedom of movement, and fair legal treatment, reinforcing their status as essential to the global supply chain.  Read more…

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INS Sunayna arrives in Mozambique under SAGAR Mission, strengthening regional maritime ties

The Indian Navy’s advanced offshore patrol vessel, INS Sunayna, arrived at Nacala Port, Mozambique on 17 April 2025, for a three-day port call as part of India’s ongoing maritime diplomacy initiative, SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).  This visit marks a significant step in enhancing India’s strategic outreach and cooperative engagement with nations across the Indian Ocean Region. Flagged off from Karwar on 5 April by India’s Raksha Mantri (Defence Minister), INS Sunayna is currently leading the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) deployment, which includes 44 naval personnel from nine partner nations: Mozambique, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.   Read more…

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From Drakensberg to drones: Rethinking South Africa’s naval capabilities

If one of South Africa’s new Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPVs) was to set sail at the tip of the country’s western most border and sail to the easternmost border at 20 knots an hour, it would take the ship 6 ½ days to complete the patrol. The reality of that situation, says former Dutch naval officer and now Damen Naval senior consultant Ed Veen, is that the three ships envisaged by Project Biro – and made by Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) – will hardly make a dent in protecting South Africa’s maritime integrity. To properly secure South Africa’s maritime security needs, the relevant defence planners have to consider not what the country’s needs are now, but what they will be like in ten years’ time – as well as what the technology could look like then.   Read more…

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New Maritime Labour Convention amendments Boosting seafarers’ conditions

Seafarers are set to benefit from improved working and living conditions following the adoption of important amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006. This was reported by IMO on 17 April. The IMO which participated in the MLC Special Tripartite Committee meeting at ILO in Geneva from 7 to 11 April welcomed these developments. To ensure wellbeing at sea:  Amendments here reflect a continued commitment by the international community to ensure fair treatment, enhance safety and wellbeing at sea, and recognize the vital contribution of seafarers to global trade.  Read more…

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Bulker Sale and Purchase market cools sharply in Q1 2025 amid market uncertainty

The global bulker sale and purchase (S&P) market saw a sharp decline in activity during the first quarter of 2025, with overall transaction volumes falling by approximately 58% year-on-year. According to VesselsValue data and Veson Nautical’s Rebecca Galanopoulos, just 77 bulker sales were reported so far this year, compared to 182 during the same period in 2024. A significant contributor to the slowdown appears to be geopolitical and regulatory uncertainty.   Read more…

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WHARF TALK: round-the-world cruise ship – MSC MAGNIFICA

The second of the MSC passenger cruise liners on the South African coast at the same time (see MSC Euribia in yesterday’s edition, available further down this page), was MSC Magnifica. On 16th April, at 06:00 in the morning, the passenger cruise liner ‘MSC Magnifica’ (IMO 9387085) arrived off Cape Town, from Port Elizabeth. She entered Cape Town harbour, proceeded into the Duncan Dock, and went alongside the Passenger Cruise Terminal at E berth. Unlike ‘MSC Euribia’, she was on a major cruise, and a flood of passengers disembarked to see the sights of Cape Town, the Winelands and the Cape Peninsula, whilst the Cape Town harbour bunker tanker came alongside to begin her task of transferring bunkers to her client. 

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Western Indian Ocean naval ties strengthened

While the inaugural Africa/India Key Maritime Engagement (Aikeyme) was underway last week off Tanzania, another component of maritime defence diplomacy played out in India with high level flag officer meetings. Spanish Vice Admiral Ignacio Villanueva, current Operation Atalanta commander, met with Commander-in-Chief of India’s Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sanjay Sasjit Singh and Assistant Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral SR Sequira. He also teleconferenced with Vice Admiral AN Pramod, Indian Navy Director-General Naval Operations. Villanueva’s visit to the sub-continent was a first for the European Union (EU) tasking in the Western Indian Ocean.  Read more…

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Arkas Line strengthens West Africa presence with dedicated fleet deployment

Arkas Line is stepping up its commitment to West Africa by deploying its own vessels exclusively on the region’s trade lane, marking a significant milestone in its operational strategy and regional expansion.  Since launching services in Africa in 2012, the Turkey-based container carrier has steadily grown its footprint across the continent, offering tailored, customer-centric logistics solutions. The latest development sees Arkas Line taking full control of its West Africa Service (WAS), with four of its own vessels — Mario A, Cristina A, Jean Pierre A, and Diane A — each with a capacity of 1,600 TEU, now dedicated to the route.   Read more…

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FIRST VIEW: MMIPV Fleet Expands: SAS Adam Kok III Joins South Africa’s Coastal Defence

Africa Ports & Ships

South African Navy’s New MMIPVs: Strengthening Coastal Security

The South African Navy (SAN) is modernising its coastal patrol capabilities with the introduction of a new class of patrol vessels known as MMIPVs — Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels — based out of Naval Base Durban.

These ships were built by Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) under Project Biro, aimed at replacing the aging Warrior-class patrol boats.

On Friday 25 April 2025, the third and final (in this series) of MMIPVs, SAS Adam Kok III (P1573), was named at the Salisbury Island Naval Base in Durban.

Class and Design

The MMIPVs are based on the Damen Stan Patrol 6211 design — a robust and proven platform adapted to South African requirements. The 6211 indicates a hull length of 62 metres and a beam of 11 metres.

Key features of the design include:

Sea Axe hull form for superior seakeeping, reduced slamming, and better fuel economy.

Modular mission spaces allowing adaptation for a range of roles, from patrol and interdiction to environmental protection and humanitarian assistance.

Armament

Although lightly armed compared to larger combatants, the MMIPVs are well-suited for constabulary duties. Their weaponry includes:

One 20 mm Rheinmetall Denel GI-2 automatic cannon (remotely operated on the bow).

Two 12.7 mm heavy machine guns (manually operated, typically mounted port and starboard amidships).

Provision for small arms and boarding party equipment.

There are no missile systems or heavy weapons — the focus is on law enforcement, anti-piracy, counter-narcotics, and fisheries protection rather than high-intensity combat.

Performance:

Maximum Speed: 26 knots

Range: Approximately 4,000 nautical miles at 12 knots

Endurance: Up to 14 days at sea without resupply

Crew: Core complement of around 40 personnel, but can embark additional boarding teams or specialists.

The vessels are fitted with a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) launch and recovery system from a stern slipway, enabling rapid boarding operations at sea.

Ships in the Class

SAS King Sekhukhune I (P1571) — Commissioned

SAS Shaka (P1572) — Commissioned

SAS Adam Kok III (P1573) — Commissioned

A fourth vessel was an option under the initial contract, but funding constraints make it uncertain whether it will proceed.

Strategic Role

Operating primarily from Durban, these vessels bolster South Africa’s ability to patrol its EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) along the Indian Ocean and west coast — a region increasingly threatened by illegal fishing, smuggling, piracy, and environmental degradation.

The MMIPVs:

Conduct fisheries patrols

Intercept illegal activities at sea

Assist in Search and Rescue (SAR) missions

Support regional maritime security operations in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) waters.

They represent a major upgrade in capability compared to the old Warrior-class vessels, with better seakeeping, longer endurance, and more modern equipment.

Other Notable Features

Integrated bridge system for improved situational awareness

Helicopter landing capability: No hangar, but a flight deck can accommodate medium helicopters for short-term operations (typically for vertical replenishment or emergency use).

Ballistic protection for critical areas like the bridge and engine spaces.

Reduced radar cross-section (RCS) design features for enhanced survivability.

Who was Adam Kok III?

Adam Kok III was born in 1811 and became leader of the Griqua people at Philippolis in 1835 following the death of his father, Adam Kok II. With the encouragement of the British he led his people on a two year trek across the Orange Free State and southern Lesotho to an area south of Natal known as Nomansland, where the Griqua people settled. This subsequently became known as East Griqualand and the town and capital they founded is named Kokstad in his honour. Kaptein Adam Kok III died from a wagon accident near Umzimkulu on 30 December 1875. East Griqualand is today a part of KwaZulu-Natal.

Added 28 April 2025

Pictures by Clinton Wyness
Text by Terry Hutson

Africa Ports & Ships

Added 28 April 2025

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IMO tightens safety regulations for ammonium nitrate transport

Africa Ports & Ships

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has taken a significant step in enhancing maritime safety with its latest amendment to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

The regulatory change, which affects Clause 7.6.2.8.4, aims to improve the safe transportation of ammonium nitrate by sea, a compound widely used in fertilizers and explosives.

Welcoming this decision, the global cargo handling association ICHCA International (ICHCA) emphasized the amendments importance in mitigating the risks associated with ammonium nitrate shipping.

The amendment mandates that ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate-based fertilizers classified under UN 1942 and UN 2067 may only be stowed under deck if all hatches, including tween deck hatches, can be opened in an emergency.

This ensures that effective firefighting through ventilation and boundary cooling can be carried out swiftly.

ICHCA played a key role in advocating for this change, having submitted a White Paper to the IMO in 2022 that highlighted the risks of fire when transporting ammonium nitrate at sea. The organization urged for clearer provisions in the IMDG Code to eliminate any ambiguity regarding emergency accessibility.

CEO Richard Steele is calling for industry-wide voluntary compliance ahead of the official implementation date of January 2026, stating that “the new regulation should be adhered to immediately to enhance safety measures.”

Ammonium nitrate fires can escalate rapidly due to the compound’s properties, which accelerate the combustion of surrounding materials.

“Understanding these risks is crucial for proper stowage and handling on board vessels,” said Brian Devaraj, a member of ICHCA’s Technical Panel and lead author of the White Paper. He further stressed that compliance with Clause 7.6.2.8.4 at all times is imperative to prevent potential disasters.

Regulatory authorities in several nations, including Australia, South Africa, and Chile, had already introduced stringent requirements for ammonium nitrate transportation, recognizing the dangers associated with improper storage.

The newly clarified IMDG Code amendment provides uniform guidance that applies to various types of vessels, including bulk carriers, multipurpose tween deckers, and conventional reefer vessels.

ICHCA has committed to promoting awareness of the amendment as part of its Dangerous Goods Awareness campaign throughout 2025, urging all stakeholders in the maritime transport industry to integrate these updated safety measures without delay.

* The whitepaper, ‘Ammonium Nitrate Fire Risk on Board Ships’ is available for free download HERE

Added 3 May 2025

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Liner Shipping Pumps $1.1 Trillion into U.S. Economy, Supports 6.4 Million Jobs – New S&P Global Report

Africa Ports & Ships

A newly released report from S&P Global has underscored the vast economic footprint of the liner shipping industry in the United States, revealing it supports more than 6.4 million American jobs and contributes over $1.1 trillion to the nation’s GDP.

Published on 28 April by the World Shipping Council*, the report provides an in-depth, independent analysis of liner shipping’s economic impact across employment, trade, wages, sales, and tax revenues.

Among the headline findings:

Liner shipping handles 64.4% of U.S. seaborne trade by value, making it the backbone of ocean-based transport for both imports and exports.

The industry transports nearly $1.5 trillion in U.S. trade annually, including $335 billion in exports and $1.1 trillion in imports.

It generates $262.5 billion in federal and state tax revenue.

Beyond direct trade, the report highlights liner shipping’s essential role in the U.S. manufacturing and production sectors. Approximately 44% of U.S. imports carried by liner vessels—worth $490 billion—are industrial inputs such as raw materials and components.

These inputs, in turn, help generate an additional $628 billion in domestic economic output.

Liner vessels make more than 18,000 port calls across the United States annually, underscoring their vital role in maintaining reliable trade flows and bolstering supply chain resilience.

As U.S. policymakers and business leaders continue to focus on supply chain security and economic growth, the report reaffirms that liner shipping is not just a trade facilitator—it’s a central pillar of the American economy.

Download the full report here

and the WSC’s factsheet here

* The World Shipping Council is the united voice of liner shipping, working with policymakers and industry groups to shape the future growth of a socially responsible, environmentally sustainable, safe, and secure shipping industry. A non- profit trade association, e WSC has offices in Brussels, London, Singapore and Washington, D.C.

Added 2 May 2025

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Trade priorities: Francophone countries reflect strategy

Edited by Paul Ridgway
Africa Ports & Ships
London

Representatives from French-speaking African and Indian Ocean WTO Members met for a regional consultation in Yaoundé, Cameroon, from 28 to 30 April, with the aim of defining their trade priorities one year ahead of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14), which is also scheduled to be held in Yaoundé in March 2026.

In the words of Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, host of MC14: “MC14 must serve as a launch pad for a better future.”

WTO + OIF

Jointly organised by the WTO Secretariat and the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) at the request of the French-speaking countries represented this consultation entitled ‘On the road to the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference’.

This was aimed to bring out ideas so that the countries of the French-speaking multilateral system can maximise their participation in the WTO and play a greater role in world trade.

Trade multilateralism

Minister Mbarga Atangana highlighted the many challenges that the Francophone space has faced in recent years; from health crises that have weakened supply chains to security crises, food insecurity and trade tensions.

He recalled that trade multilateralism has had the objective of promoting the development of States through trade since its inception. The political room for manoeuvre of governments for Africa’s development must be decisive in this sense, he stressed.

In order for the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference to: ‘serve as a launching pad for a better future’, he continued, it will be essential to focus the negotiations on agriculture, food security, investment facilitation for development, e-commerce, fisheries subsidies, the role between trade and environment, WTO reform and development issues in general.

Importance of world trade stressed

During the closing session, the participants stressed the importance of world trade for their economies and the urgency for the countries of the French-speaking world to increase their participation in it for economic growth, employment and for the improvement of the prosperity and well-being of the populations.

They pledged to use the opportunity for a Ministerial Conference to be organized in Africa to put the economic and trade development of the economies of the French-speaking world at the forefront.

World Trade Outlook and Statistics published

The WTO Secretariat also presented to the representatives of the participating governments the latest World Trade Outlook and Statistics as well as an overview of current ratifications of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.

The list of participants is available here.

Strengthening of cooperation ’twixt WTO and OIF

This consultation was part of the strengthening of cooperation between the WTO and the OIF, marked in 2023 by the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding.

The objective is to increase the participation of French-speaking countries in the global trading system, particularly in developing economies.

The targeted areas of support concern trade capacity building, trade promotion and development activities in French-speaking countries, particularly in Africa and the least developed countries.

Added 2 May 2025

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WHARF TALK: HMS BEAGLE – 31st May 1836 to 18th June 1836

Story by Jay Gates 
Africa Ports & Ships

In the history of the opening up of the modern world, and the coming of the age of scientific exploration and discovery, Cape Town has been at the forefront of that greatest epoch of history. It was a time when the British Empire was expanding, and the Cape Colony was the naval staging post for the arrival, and departure, of those Royal Navy warships that had been set up to do just that, explore and discover the unknown world, or make more sense of the recently discovered world.

It has to be said that the Royal Navy commanders that were at the forefront of this expansion of knowledge were great leaders, to a man, and numbered amongst their august ranks the likes of James Cook, Matthew Flinders, George Vancouver, William Bligh, Philip Carteret, Francis Beaufort, and Robert Fitzroy. However, not all voyages were famed for the Commander of the particular vessel, but in some instances it was who accompanied the vessel. In that day and age, most Royal Navy voyages of exploration carried a naturalist amongst the crew, and one was to become more famous than the rest, and someone who everybody today is fully aware of.

On 31st May 1836 the Royal Navy barque-sloop ‘HMS Beagle’ arrived in False Bay, from Port Louis in Mauritius, and went to anchor in Simons Bay, off Simonstown. Her arrival, and the use of the winter anchorage in False Bay, rather than using Table Bay, was normal for the time of year and gave Royal Navy ships the protection that False bay afforded from the rough seas, and high winds, of the winter Northwesterly storms.

On her homeward section of a mammoth voyage, ‘HMS Beagle’ was under the command of Captain Robert Fitzroy RN. She had originally sailed from Plymouth way back on 27th December 1831, and was now in her fifth year of a voyage of circumnavigation. Her voyage was one of surveying and scientific exploration, with her onboard scientist and naturalist being a young gentleman by the name of Charles Darwin.

One of a class of 104 warships known as the Cherokee Class, ‘HMS Beagle’ was originally built as a two masted brig-sloop, with ten guns. Of this class, eight of them were selected for conversion to survey and exploration vessels, with armament reduced to six guns, and refits that included raised bulwarks and, in the case of ‘HMS Beagle’, the addition of a third mizzen mast to change her configuration to that of a barque-sloop. She was the third Royal Navy warship to receive the name ‘Beagle’.

She was ordered by the Lords of the Admiralty in June 1817, and laid down at the Woolwich Dockyard, on the River Thames, in June 1818. Launched in May 1820, she initially did not receive her masts and rigging, and was laid up to await a commission. She was 28 metres in length, with a beam of 7.5 metres, and a burthen weight of 238 tons. She cost £7,803 to build, and carried a crew of 75. She had to wait six years for her first commission.

Her first voyage was to the tip of South America, and to conduct a hydrographic survey of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, and she sailed from Plymouth in May 1826 under the command of Captain Pringle Stokes. In August 1828, when lying at Port Famine in the Strait of Magellan, Captain Stokes fell into a depression and committed suicide by shooting himself. Sailed to Montevideo by her First Lieutenant, the Commander of the Royal Navy South America Station placed his own Flag Lieutenant in command of ‘HMS Beagle’, none other than Robert Fitzroy, to continue the voyage.

Returning to the survey area, Commander Fitzroy discovered a new navigable channel through the islands of the Strait of Magellan, which he named after his vessel, the Beagle Channel. The voyage concluded at Plymouth in October 1830. The log of ‘HMS Beagle’ from this voyage, in Fitzroy’s handwriting, is now a prized exhibit to be found in the National Maritime Museum, at Buenos Aires in Argentina.

The second voyage of ‘HMS Beagle’, subsequently to be known in modern history simply as ’The voyage of the Beagle’ began on 27th December 1831, under the command of now Captain Robert Fitzroy, with 10 officers, 4 midshipmen, 38 seamen, 8 marines, and 9 supernumeraries which included Charles Darwin. As the voyage was tasked with undertaking a full set of measurements of Longitude around the globe, Robert Fitzroy had no less than 22 Chronometers on board, as well as five mercury free barometers, and ‘HMS Beagle’ was fitted as one of the first vessels to have a lightning conductor atop her mainmast.

The voyage of ‘HMS Beagle’ has gone down in history, mainly due to the scientific work undertaken by Charles Darwin, notably at the Galapagos Islands. However, it is often thought that the catalyst for what was to become his earth shattering Theory of Evolution, came whilst he was in Cape Town during the visit of ‘HMS Beagle’ in 1836.

His time in the Cape is well recorded, and as well as taking a trip into the hinterland via Paarl, Franschoek and Houwhoek, Charles Darwin was also taken to Sea Point to study the geology of the area. Darwin reached conclusions about the areas of geological contacts in the Western Cape region, regarding the slate formation and the injection of granite seams as a liquid, which differed from the ideas of earlier eminent geologists. The casual maritime observer, who also has an historical interest in the Cape, can still visit Sea Point today, where a historical plaque marks the spot where Darwin reached his conclusions.

On 15th June 1836, Captain Fitzroy and Darwin were invited to dine with the great Cape Astronomer, Sir John Herschel, at his home ‘Feldhausen’ in Claremont. Herschel had arrived in the Cape in January 1834 to map the Southern Skies, and had interests in other scientific matters. One of which he discussed with Darwin, initially only recorded by Darwin as “the most memorable event, which for a long period, I have had the good fortune to enjoy.”

Charles Darwin had more meetings with Herschel, and in one subsequent writing of one such visit he wrote “Herschel calls the appearance of new species the mystery of mysteries, and has a grand passage upon the problem! Hurrah – ‘intermediate causes’”. This was clearly a lightbulb moment into the theory he was working on.

When he wrote his ground breaking book ‘On the Origin of Species’, which was published in 1859, Darwin opened the volume by writing in the first paragraph “These facts seemed to throw some light on the origin of species – that mystery of mysteries as it has been called by one of our greatest philosophers.” So can Cape Town claim to be the place where the Origin of Species came into being? It can certainly clearly be seen that the mystery of mysteries from Herschel gave Darwin that spark!

The stay of ‘HMS Beagle’ in Simons Bay was the second longest port stay of her long five year circumnavigation, with the critical stay in the Galapagos Islands being the longest on the voyage. On 18th June 1836, after less than three weeks in the Cape, she sailed for her northward push for home, but first bound for St. Helena. She finally arrived back in the United Kingdom on 7th October 1836 when she pulled into the port of Falmouth in Cornwall.

On arrival in England, Charles Darwin set about setting his diary down into a book, and in 1839 his seminal work ‘The voyage of the Beagle’ was published, of which the writer of this article has a copy. Captain Fitzroy went on to set up the Meteorological Office, the forerunner of all national met organisations worldwide. The casual maritime observer may not know that Robert Fitzroy was the first person ever to use the phrase ‘Weather Forecast’ in a published document.

Her departure from Simons Bay in 1836 was not the last time that ‘HMS Beagle’ called into the Cape. On her third and final voyage, which lasted from 1837 to 1843, she departed from Plymouth on 5th July 1837, under the command of Commander John Windham RN, with a commission to proceed to Australia and survey the west and northern coasts of that continent. After calling at the Cape outbound, she departed for the Swan River in Western Australia, now better known as Perth.

On this voyage they discovered a bay on the northern Australian coast, which was named after the crewmate and colleague from the previous voyage, Darwin Bay, and now the site of the city of Darwin, the State capital of the Australian Northern Territory. They also discovered a new river mouth, which they named the Fitzroy River, after their former Captain.

Also on this voyage, of naval historical interest, was Midshipman Crawford Pasco, who was the son of Lieutenant John Pasco RN, who was Admiral Lord Nelson’s Signals Officer on HMS Victory, during the Battle of Trafalgar, and the man responsible for raising the famous pre-battle signal from Nelson to the fleet, “England expects every man to do his duty.”

On the return to England on 30th September 1843, ‘HMS Beagle’ was decommissioned, and in 1845 she was retired from the active fleet, becoming a Coast Guard hulk in Essex. However, for those that can get there, a full sized replica of ‘HMS Beagle’, which can be boarded, can be found at the Nao Victoria Museum, at Punta Arenas in Chile.

The historical visit to the Cape by ‘HMS Beagle’, almost 200 years ago, has not been forgotten, as a re-enactment voyage is currently underway around the world, with a tall ship, and with a view to try and follow the original route, if at all possible, of ‘HMS Beagle’. That included a recent call at Cape Town, and Simons Bay, with ceremonies and events throughout the Cape Peninsula to celebrate the South African leg of that fateful voyage. Only flat earthers, and religious fundamentalists, will not consider the works of Charles Darwin to have any meaning. For the rest of us, evolution is real.

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DP World Sokhna posts record throughput in Q1 2025 as citrus exports surge

Africa Ports & Ships

Ain Sokhna, Egypt – 30 April 2025: DP World Sokhna has reported its highest-ever quarterly container volume, handling 285,000 TEUs in the first quarter of 2025 — a 26% increase over target and the strongest performance since the terminal began operations nearly two decades ago.

The record-breaking throughput reflects both rising trade activity and Sokhna’s growing role as a strategic logistics hub on Egypt’s Red Sea coast. A key contributor to the growth was a significant rise in refrigerated cargo, particularly citrus exports, as Egypt continues to build its reputation as one of the world’s leading citrus exporters.

Since assuming operational control of Sokhna Port in 2008, DP World has invested more than $1.3 billion in infrastructure and technology upgrades. These include the capacity to berth some of the world’s largest container ships and the deployment of digital tools to support efficient, on-demand cargo handling for domestic and international businesses.

“This level of growth clearly demonstrates Ain Sokhna Port’s rising importance as a logistics hub, not only for Egypt, but for the wider region,” said Avnash Iyer, COO and Acting CEO for DP World Egypt.

“Our ongoing investments — from Freight Forwarding offices to the soon-to-launch Sokhna Logistics Park — are designed to support a growing and dynamic market while helping our customers move cargo more efficiently.”

Sokhna Port’s ability to scale its cold chain capabilities has been crucial to supporting Egypt’s expanding perishables trade. With modern refrigerated facilities and integrated logistics systems, the port is well-positioned to handle sensitive cargo and accelerate agricultural exports to international markets.

As part of DP World’s broader logistics strategy in Egypt, Sokhna is central to a fully integrated, end-to-end supply chain offering. The port links exporters and importers directly to global trade routes, while supporting national economic growth through improved trade efficiency and supply chain resilience.

The Port of Ain Sokhna is situated in the Red Sea Gulf about 35 miles south of Port Suez.

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MSC Cruises South Africa celebrates the end of the summer 2024/2025 cruise season

Africa Ports & Ships

MSC Cruises South Africa recently concluded its local summer cruise season, featuring MSC Musica.

During the local season, which kicked off in November 2024, MSC Musica, the 3,200-passenger vessel, was a temporary home to over 90,000 passengers, and took guests to picturesque destinations in Mozambique, Reunion, Mauritius and Namibia.

Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa says the company is pleased with the performance of the vessel, which attracted a good number of passengers, and the company looks forward with anticipation to the upcoming 2025/2026 season when guests will have the pleasure of voyaging on MSC Opera.

MSC Cruises operates four routes from two South African ports. The Durban-to-Mozambique route is the most popular with local cruisers, while the Cape Town-to-Walvis Bay route is particularly popular with overseas cruisers as well.

The other two routes are Durban-to-Mauritius and Durban-to-Cape Town.

“We are very pleased to see our loyal customers return to cruise with us every new season and we appreciate their support,” said Volk.

“It is also great to see new travellers discovering cruising as an alternative holiday which offers good value for money. The demand for cruising locally continues to show growth.”

After completing a season in the Mediterranean, MSC Opera will make her way back to South Africa to officially start another local season in the country.

The vessel, which is part of MSC Cruises’ Lirica class ships will complete a total of 37 sailings out of Durban’s Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal and the Cape Town Cruise Terminal between November 2025 and April 2026.

Designed to prioritise open deck space with a balance of intimate spaces for guests to enjoy, MSC Opera is ideal for the local traveller’s entertainment profile and has something special on offer for everyone.

“We have made two exciting additions to the upcoming season. An extension to the season, which will offer guests the opportunity to book an additional departure in November and we have introduced Mamoudzou as a new destination.

“Mamoudzou is a beautiful city on the coast of Mayotte, another great destination for our guests to discover.” Volk concludes.

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Maersk launches first integrated logistics hub in Senegal to bolster West African supply chains

Africa Ports & Ships

Dakar, Senegal: Global shipping and logistics leader A.P. Moller – Maersk has officially opened a cutting-edge 10,000 square metre logistics hub in Senegal, marking a major step in its strategy to build robust, integrated supply chain infrastructure across West Africa.

Strategically positioned between the Port of Dakar and the city’s industrial zone — both within 10 km — the new facility is designed to serve as a key distribution node for cargo destined for Senegal and neighbouring West African countries.

Its proximity to port and industrial activity offers Maersk customers faster turnaround times, lower transport costs, and improved connectivity to end markets.

“This investment in Dakar demonstrates our long-term commitment to Senegal and the broader West African region,” said Thomas Theeuwes, Managing Director for Maersk West Africa.

“By establishing this modern warehouse facility, we’re delivering on our promise to create seamless, integrated logistics solutions that enable our customers to optimise their supply chains and accelerate growth.”

A Hub for Growth and Efficiency

The Dakar facility includes 5,100 square metres of indoor storage and 500 square metres of outdoor capacity, supporting over 7,000 pallet positions. Designed to handle a diverse range of goods — from consumer products and retail items to lifestyle and tech — the versatile warehouse will become a major asset for businesses across sectors.

In addition to storage, the warehouse offers a suite of value-added logistics services such as palletisation, order fulfilment, distribution, labelling, packaging, and customised pallet solutions.

These integrated services allow businesses to consolidate their operations with a single provider, reducing complexity and improving supply chain responsiveness.

Tech-Enabled, Sustainable and Secure

At the heart of Maersk’s Dakar hub is a modern Warehouse Management System (WMS) paired with Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) capabilities. These systems offer customers real-time visibility and seamless integration with their own platforms, ensuring enhanced control and traceability.

Sustainability has also been prioritised. The facility is powered by 60% solar energy and makes use of electric material handling equipment, reflecting Maersk’s broader goal of decarbonising global logistics.

Advanced safety measures, including forklift cameras, pedestrian detection systems, and full firefighting infrastructure, support around-the-clock operations under strict HSSE standards.

Expanding Regional Reach

This latest addition strengthens Maersk’s logistics footprint across West Africa, where it now operates in eight countries with over 100,000 square metres of warehousing space.

Locations include key gateways such as Abidjan, Tema, Lagos, Douala, Lome, Cotonou, and Conakry — all aligned with the company’s high standards for health, safety, security, and environmental performance.

As West Africa continues to emerge as a vibrant logistics market, Maersk’s new integrated logistics hub in Dakar is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s supply chain future.

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BAE Systems and Umoe Mandal sign agreement to deepen maritime collaboration

Africa Ports & Ships

British defence giant BAE Systems and Norwegian shipbuilder Umoe Mandal have signed a new Collaboration Agreement aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation between the UK and Norway.

The agreement was formalised during an industrial collaboration event held in Mandal, southern Norway, attended by government and defence sector representatives from both countries.

The two companies already have a working relationship spanning over 25 years, with Umoe Mandal currently supplying major composite structures for the UK Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigate programme.

This new agreement signals a broadening of that partnership, including joint exploration of future naval projects — most notably, the design and potential construction of a next-generation Littoral Strike Craft.

Geoff Searle, Future Business Director at BAE Systems Naval Ships, emphasised the strategic nature of the agreement:

“Norway and the UK share a strong maritime relationship, built over decades of cooperation as close allies. This Collaboration Agreement enables us to build on our two nations’ military and industrial relationships, and further strengthens our ability to offer advanced maritime capability to the Norwegian and UK navies.”

Tom Fidjeland, CEO of Umoe Mandal, highlighted the local economic and industrial benefits:

“This agreement supports future growth and development of our company, through the delivery of further frigate mast structures, and importantly through collaboration on the design and manufacture of future Commando boats. This will enable us to invest further in skills and local jobs in southern Norway.”

The Type 26 Global Combat Ship, one of the most advanced warships currently under construction, is designed for anti-submarine warfare and high-intensity air defence. It can also be adapted for humanitarian missions and medical support.

The UK has already begun work on its first five ships in the class, and Norway is reportedly considering the platform for its future naval needs — an outcome that could further deepen UK-Norway industrial cooperation.

In a wider context, the Type 26 has already been selected by Australia and Canada, setting the stage for a 29-ship programme across the three Commonwealth nations.

This shared platform is expected to improve interoperability and allow for lessons to be shared across national programmes.

Meanwhile, the potential collaboration on Littoral Strike Craft — still subject to competitive processes — could open another front in Anglo-Norwegian naval cooperation, particularly in the fast-evolving domain of commando and amphibious operations.

The agreement underscores both countries’ commitment to enhancing maritime defence capability and industrial partnerships at a time of growing strategic importance in Northern European waters.

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Inauguration of the African Space Agency

Edited by Paul Ridgway
Africa Ports & Ships
London

Africa’s space aspirations reached a significant milestone on 20 April with the inauguration of the African Space Agency (AfSA) at its headquarters in Egyptian Space City, Cairo.

This event marked the culmination of efforts that began in January 2016, when the African Union Assembly adopted the African Space Policy and Strategy during its Twenty-sixth Ordinary Session, establishing the foundation for the continent’s coordinated approach to space activities.

The inauguration ceremony gathered distinguished representatives from the African Union Commission, African governments, national space agencies, AfSA Council members, and international space organisations. This assembly of dignitaries underscored the continental and global significance of Africa’s advancement in space endeavours.

Role and Objectives of AfSA

Following its inauguration, the African Space Agency is now the primary entity coordinating Africa’s space cooperation with Europe and other international partners.

A central objective of AfSA is to enhance space missions across Africa, ensuring optimal access to space-derived data, information, services, and products.

Once fully integrated into national, regional, and continental programmes, the agency aims to eliminate duplication and inefficiencies within the African space ecosystem, it is reported. As the official coordinating body, AfSA will implement the African Space Policy and Strategy effectively and advance the continent’s space-related objectives.

Memoranda of Understanding signing

The signing of cooperation agreements with the European Space Agency, the UAE Space Agency, and Roscosmos represents AfSA’s first formal international partnerships. Each memorandum outlines specific areas of cooperation, including:

With ESA: Collaborative Earth observation programmes focused on climate monitoring and natural resource management, joint training programmes for African space professionals, and technical support for AfSA’s early institutional development.

With the UAE Space Agency: Cooperation on small satellite development, educational exchanges between African and Emirati space institutions and many more.

With Roscosmos, the Russian Federation’s office of space affairs: Technical consultation on launch capabilities, space science research collaboration, and potential participation of African astronauts in future missions.

The African Space Agency (AfSA) is the second regional space agency after ESA and has been in development since 2015, with the African Union Commission adopting an African space policy and strategy in 2016.

The African Space Agency brings together the 55 member countries of the African Union to coordinate and implement Africa’s space ambitions. Its headquarters are in Egypt, which launched Africa’s first satellite in 1998.

Since 1998 18 African countries have launched a further 63 satellites and many African nations have implemented their own space programmes to the benefit of their people.

Harnessing space science

AfSA has the goal of harnessing space science and technology for Africa’s socio-economic development, promoting collaborative research and the peaceful exploration of outer space.

The official website of the African Space Agency is to be found here

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UNCTAD launches first-ever country-level data on seaborne trade

Africa Ports & Ships

UNCTAD, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, has released new seaborne trade data that, for the first time, offers country-level statistics, providing a clearer view of global maritime flows.

Maritime transport remains the backbone of world trade, carrying more than 80% of goods traded globally by volume. It connects production hubs with consumers across continents, facilitating industrialization, driving economic growth, and creating millions of jobs worldwide.

Over decades, seaborne trade has been shaped by major transformations – from the rise of containerisation and the growing prominence of developing economies, to shifts in global production and consumption patterns. Today, new forces such as digitalisation, geopolitics, and the urgency for sustainability and climate resilience are once again reshaping the industry.

A More Detailed View of Global Trade

The newly released dataset, built from official government trade data reported to UN Comtrade, offers a more detailed and comparable snapshot of global maritime cargo movements than ever before. This new level of granularity will help countries:

• Monitor their trade performance and competitiveness,

• Assess their integration into global supply chains and maritime networks,

• Guide investments in ports and transport infrastructure, and

• Track progress on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9.1.2, which measures the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure.

Developing Economies Take a Greater Share

The data highlights a major structural shift: developing countries are no longer just loading hubs for raw materials — they have become increasingly significant importers and exporters across a wider range of goods.

Since the 1970s, a series of changes — from the oil crises and trade liberalisation to the rise of container shipping and port reforms — have transformed global maritime patterns. The trend accelerated in the early 2000s as developing countries intensified trade among themselves, spanning raw materials, oil, and manufactured goods.

Their share of global maritime freight climbed sharply from 38% in 2000 to 54% in 2023, with Asia, and particularly China, leading the way.

Despite this growth, least developed countries, many of which are in Africa, and small island developing states continue to account for only a small portion of global maritime trade.

Factors such as smaller economies, limited infrastructure, and lower integration into global value chains have hindered their participation.

From Liquid Bulk to Dry Cargo

Another major shift captured in the data is the move from liquid to dry cargo. Until the early 2000s, maritime trade was dominated by liquid bulk, mainly crude oil. However, the expansion of global value chains and the rise of containerization changed the landscape.

Crude oil’s share of global seaborne trade fell from 29% in 2000 to just 18% in 2023. Meanwhile, dry bulk commodities, including coal, iron ore, grains, and manufactured goods, saw their share rise from 27% to 36%.

This transformation also reflects China’s emergence as both a major manufacturing powerhouse and a top importer of dry bulk goods.

Disruptions and Resilience

While global maritime trade volumes have grown overall, the dataset reveals significant disruptions during key periods — notably the 2008–2009 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.

More recently, events such as the war in Ukraine, security tensions in the Red Sea, and a severe drought affecting the Panama Canal have exposed the vulnerabilities of critical maritime chokepoints.

As global trade becomes more complex and interconnected, having detailed, reliable data is crucial to building resilience and supporting sustainable growth across the maritime sector.

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WHARF TALK: AUV survey vessel – ARGEO VENTURE

Pictures by ‘Dockrat’ 
Story by Jay Gates

South African ports get to host some of the world’s most beautiful vessels. Equally, they get to host some of the world’s ugliest vessels. Ugly, in terms of naval architecture, is a ‘Marmite’ subject, as beauty is very much in the eye of the beholder. Occasionally, a ‘Marmite’ vessel arrives that is not only a trendsetter in design, but has then been rebuilt to be a trendsetter in a completely different direction, and for a completely different purpose to that for which she was designed in the first instance.

On 30th March, at 09:00 in the morning, the AUV survey vessel ‘Argeo Venture’ (IMO 9538086) arrived off Cape Town, from Walvis Bay in Namibia. She entered Cape Town harbour, proceeding into the Duncan Dock, and went alongside the Landing Wall. Such a berth, for such a vessel, is normally indicative that some local maintenance engineering support is required.

Built in 2009 by Dubai Drydocks World in Dubai, ‘Argeo Venture’ is 91 metres in length and has a gross registered tonnage of 6,570 tons. She is a diesel electric vessel with both her domestic and propulsion power being derived from no less than six Wärtsilä 9L20 generators, each providing 1,800 kW. Power for propulsion is transferred to two Schottel SRP3030 nozzled controllable pitch propellers, which produce 3,100 kW each to give a service speed of 14 knots.

Her auxiliary machinery includes a single Caterpillar 3406TA emergency generator providing 293 kW. For added manoeuvrability she has a single bow Brunvoll transverse thruster providing 1,200 kW, and a single bow Brunvoll retractable azimuth thruster providing 850 kW. She has an ice class classification of ICE 1C, which allows her to navigate in first year Baltic Sea ice with a thickness of 0.4 metres.

Her mix of Schottel propellers and thrusters gives her a Dynamic Positioning classification of DP2. This is provided by a Kongsberg K-Pos DP21 system which comprises two gyro compasses, one HiPAP acoustic system, one Sonardyne acoustic system, and two Veripos GNSS systems, with three GNSS receivers, where the Veripos systems can track GPS, Glonass, Galileo and BeiDou satellite navigation systems simultaneously.

Unusually, ‘Argeo Venture’ has a bollard pull of 100 tons. One might ask why a UAV survey vessel would require such a pulling requirement. It is because ‘Argeo Venture’ was originally launched as a 3D/4D seismic survey vessel, capable of towing up to 12 streamers, with a length of 8,000 metres each, and with a separation of 100 metres. She was the first of a class of six sisterships, known as the Ulstein SX124 design, and built complete with the famous Ulstein X-Bow, owned by Polarcus of Dubai, and launched as ‘Polarcus Nadia’.

In 2015, as a result of a downturn in the price of oil, she was placed into lay-up by Polarcus, where she remained until 2021. In April 2021 she was purchased by Shearwater Geoservices, but remained in lay-up until 2023. In November of 2023 she was purchased by her current owners, who had different plans for her, not connected to that of a seismic survey vessel. She was taken out of lay-up, transferred to Norway for conversion into an AUV survey vessel.

For those casual maritime observers who are in the know, it was an Underwater Autonomous Vehicle (AUV) that found Shackleton’s ‘Endurance’ lying at the bottom of the Weddell Sea. Unlike a Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV), the AUV is not tethered back to her mother ship, but rather operates independently, wireless and akin to a submarine. Other famous uses of AUV include those used for the search of the lost MH370 airliner in the South Indian Ocean.

Her conversion included the removal of her helideck, the addition of more accommodation to give her sufficient cabins for up to 69 persons, and the conversion of her aft seismic deck into a UAV hangar, and working deck to enable the launch and recovery of AUVs. Her working deck has an area of 350 m2, with her AUV hangar having an area of 400 m2. She can operate with the Hugin Superior AUV, together with up to two Work ROVs.

She has a Seaonics active heave compensated (AHC) knuckleboom crane, with a lifting capacity of 50 tons, and capable of operating down to a depth of 4,000 metres. She also has two deck knuckleboom cranes, with a capacity of 4 tons each, and two hangar overhead beam cranes, capable of lifting 3 tons each. She has a stern ramp for her AUV operations. For overside sampling ‘Argeo Venture’ is equipped with both Piston Cores, and Grab Samplers.

Owned by Argeo Ship Holding AS, of Nassau in the Bahamas, ‘Argeo Venture’ is both operated and managed by Argeo ASA, of Hvalstad in Norway. She has an endurance of 120 days at sea, at economic speed, and up to 150 days when on station. Her conversion in Norway took place at the Halsnøy AS shipyard, in Høylandsbygd, with outfitting and completion taking place at Fjellstrand AS shipyard, in Omastrand. Her conversion and return to service for Argeo ASA began in November 2023, and was completed in April 2024.

Her return to service saw her immediately going on a ten month contract for TotalEnergies, the French oil and gas company, valued at US$39 million (ZAR728.85 million). She sailed directly for Walvis Bay in Namibia, where she began her survey work in May 2024 on the Venus Field, located in the Orange River basin. During the duration of her contract ‘Argeo Venture’ completed the survey of 7,000 kilometres of seafloor geophysics data, all acquired by AUV, and had taken over 200 seabed samples using her sampling equipment. Her contract ended in March 2025, where she immediately sailed for Cape Town.

Her maintenance requirements in Cape Town took 36 hours to complete alongside, and at 21:00 in the late evening of 31st March ‘Argeo Venture’ sailed from the Landing Wall, and departed from Cape Town, but only as far as the Table Bay anchorage, presumably to carry out final maintenance needs, and carry out any testing. Within 24 hours she was ready to depart to her next contract, and at 21:00 in the late evening of 1st April she departed from the Table Bay Anchorage, with her AIS showing that she was now bound for Pemba in Mozambique.

Her next contract was again for TotalEnergies, and the casual maritime observer will be aware that TotalEnergies are building the Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) processing plant on the Afungi Peninsula in Northern Mozambique. This is a project that has had severe delays due to a violent Islamic insurgency in the region. Work has recently restarted, albeit slowly, on the building of the enormous LNG liquefaction plant on the peninsula.

It is presumed that ‘Argeo Venture’ is to undertake further AUV surveys offshore Northern Mozambique linked to TotalEnergies gas field tracts in the Rovuma Basin. TotalEnergies is deeply involved in the Rovuma Basin in Northern Mozambique, particularly with the Mozambique LNG project (Area 1) and the Rovuma LNG project (Area 4). The Rovuma Basin holds significant gas reserves, and TotalEnergies are the operator and largest shareholder in the Area 1 project, while they are also a partner in the Area 4 project.

For the casual maritime observer who wonders about the history of the X-Bow vessel, and whether or not they have visited South African ports in the past, the first such vessel to enter worldwide service was the Anchor Handling Supply Tug (AHST) ‘Bourbon Orca’, which was built in 2006. Since that time South Africa ports have played host to X-Bow AHST vessels, Platform Supply Vessels (PSV), Ocean Towing vessels, Windfarm Support vessels, and even the world’s first X-Bow expedition passenger vessel, the ‘Greg Mortimer’.

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Massive Iranian port explosion linked to balistic missile fuel

Africa Ports & Ships

A massive explosion that ripped through a warehouse in the Iranian port of Shahid Rajee on Saturday is likely to have been the result of mishandling sodium perchlorate solid missile fuel intended for ballistic missiles.

That’s the view of a global maritime risk management firm, according to a BBC report.

Latest reports say the explosion has killed at least 40 people and injured more than 800 (since risen to more than 70 dead and 1200+ injured – AP&S)

The accident is reminiscent of the Beirut explosion on 4 August 2020, when 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate stored over a number of years in a warehouse, ignited, causing one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history.

That left more than 200 dead, 6,500 injured and about 300,000 people homeless.

In that aftermath of the explosion dozens of steel containers lay buckled, bent and broken in what had been their stacks, while trucks loaded with cargo were destroyed as they stood parked. Rubble lay strewn in what had just a short while earlier been neat and tidy rows of containers.

The Iranian port explosion is not of that magnitude but still another example of poor handling and storage of dangerous cargo in a busy port.

It is believed the cargo of sodium perchlorate, a white crystalline substance used in the production of rocket fuel and explosives, arrived in the port onboard two Iranian-flagged ships in March this year, packed in containers.

The ships had earlier loaded the cargo at a Chinese port.

Iranian defense ministry Gen. Reza Talaeinik subsequently denied these reports that missile fuel had been tracked into the port.

The port of Shahid Rajee is one of the two sections forming the ports of Bandar Abbas, facing the Strait of Hormuz, that vital waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea in the north-west of the Indian Ocean.

Shahid Rajee, 12 miles west of Bandar Abbas itself, is also home to the Iranian Navy’s main base.

Following the explosion, all port operations were suspended while emergency teams hastened to the scene. Thick black smoke enveloped the area while the resultant fire burned.

Shops, schools and offices in the area were ordered to remain shut until further notice and people warned to stay away.

The incident raises again the inherent dangers of handling dangerous chemical products in crowded ports worldwide.

According to unconfirmed reports from Iranian state media, a fire in spread to unsealed containers holding the sodium perchlorate in a chemical materials storage warehouse.

The Iranian government has ordered a governmental-headed investigation into the fire and explosion headed by the regional interior minister.

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Angola to become major fertiliser exporter with new $2 billion ammonia and urea plant

Africa Ports & Ships

Angola is set to boost its agricultural output and become a major fertiliser exporter following the launch of a landmark $2 billion ammonia and urea plant in Soyo, backed by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and promoted by the OPAIA Group.

Afreximbank, acting as Mandated Lead Arranger, will provide $1.4 billion in debt financing for the project, while also helping to raise additional equity through its Advisory and Capital Markets division.

Construction will be led by Amufert S.A., a subsidiary of the OPAIA Group, in partnership with major global engineering firms including KBR, TOYO Engineering Corporation, WeDO, and Wuhan Engineering Company.

The fertiliser plant, with a production capacity of 4,000 metric tons per day, is a cornerstone of Angola’s efforts to industrialise, diversify its economy, and strengthen agricultural self-sufficiency.

Once operational in 2027, it is expected to sharply reduce Angola’s dependence on imported fertilisers, while creating 4,700 jobs and supporting broader food security goals.

Importantly for the shipping and logistics sectors, surplus production will position Angola as a key supplier of fertiliser across Africa, boosting export volumes and fostering greater intra-African trade.

The project is seen as vital to improving Angola’s agricultural competitiveness and leveraging its natural gas resources for industrial growth beyond oil.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ms. Oluranti Doherty, Managing Director for Export Development at Afreximbank, emphasised the project’s role in “facilitating higher agriculture yields, higher production, and an increase in export volumes of agriculture products from Angola.”

OPAIA Group Chairman Agostinho Kapaia added that the initiative represents “a concrete solution to the urgent need to increase agricultural production and guarantee food security for future generations.”

Construction of the plant will begin in 2025, with major economic and trade benefits expected to follow as Angola steps into a leading role in Africa’s fertiliser supply chain.

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New fuel rules, new fleets: Shipping braces for a green transition

Africa Ports & Ships

New IMO fuel intensity target set to reshape ship sales and fleet strategies

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) latest environmental regulation, unveiled at the 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) meeting, is poised to bring major changes to the global shipping industry.

Set to come into force no later than March 2027, the new fuel intensity target introduces a financial penalty system aimed at curbing the use of carbon-intensive fuels such as Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO).

Under the forthcoming scheme, shipowners using cheaper, high-emission fuels will face financial penalties, with the collected funds directed into the ‘IMO Net-Zero Fund’ to support green shipping initiatives.

The regulation mirrors the EU’s FuelEU Maritime rules but will apply globally, leveling the playing field for alternative fuels like ammonia and methanol. These greener fuels, often burdened by higher operational and capital costs, will now become more competitive.

According to Oliver Kirkham, Senior Valuation Analyst at Veson Nautical, the regulation will have three major impacts on the ship sale and purchase (S&P) market:

1. Surge in Demand for Dual-Fuel Vessels

Vessels capable of operating on both conventional and alternative fuels are expected to become more attractive.

Dual-fuel ships offer owners greater flexibility to manage volatile fuel costs and new compliance requirements. Additionally, operators of such vessels can use ‘excess compliance’ — gained by running on low-carbon fuels — to offset emissions from conventional fuel use, making dual-fuel ships a smart hedge against regulatory risk.

2. Older, Less Efficient Vessels Facing Early Retirement

Vessels built before the IMO’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) rules came into effect in 2013 could be at risk of early scrapping.

Many of these ships, constructed during the 2000s shipbuilding boom, have lower efficiency standards and are now reaching 15 years of age or older.

Expensive retrofits may offer a lifeline, but for many owners, early scrapping could be the more cost-effective route.

3. Rising Demand for Newbuilds and Young, Fuel-Efficient Ships

The pressure to meet emissions targets is already feeding through to the S&P market.

Ships built to EEDI Phase 3 standards (effective from 2025) offer a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency over 2009 levels, and this jump in performance is helping drive up both newbuild orders and S&P activity.

The buoyant bulker market in 2024, marked by a surge in sales of 10–15-year-old vessels, is a sign that owners are actively renewing fleets with younger, more efficient ships. This trend is expected to accelerate as regulatory costs mount for older vessels.

As the industry braces for the 2027 implementation of the IMO’s new fuel intensity target, fleet renewal and investment strategies are already shifting. Whether by investing in dual-fuel technology, ordering new high-efficiency ships, or retiring older tonnage, shipowners will need to act decisively to stay competitive in a fast-decarbonizing market.

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CMA CGM secures controlling stake in Santos Brasil in $2 billion deal

Africa Ports & Ships

French shipping and logistics giant CMA CGM has finalised its acquisition of a controlling stake in Santos Brasil Participações S/A, strengthening its presence in South America’s largest port.

The $2 billion transaction, completed on 24 April 2025, increases CMA CGM’s shareholding to 51%, following regulatory approvals from Brazilian authorities.

With this move, CMA CGM takes control of Tecon Santos, Brazil’s busiest container terminal, which handles 40% of the country’s container traffic.

The terminal, located at the Port of Santos, has a current capacity of 2.5 million TEUs, with expansion plans to reach 3 million TEUs. Santos Brasil also operates eight other strategic assets across Brazil, including container, liquid, and vehicle handling facilities.

In line with Brazilian financial regulations, CMA CGM will now launch a mandatory tender offer for all remaining outstanding shares of Santos Brasil at BRL 13.60 per share, adjusted by the SELIC interest rate* until the financial settlement.

The company also plans to delist Santos Brasil from the Novo Mercado segment of the São Paulo Stock Exchange (B3), pending a valuation report and regulatory approval.

“This significant investment reflects our commitment to strengthening our partnership with Brazil and supporting its growth in the coming years,” said CMA CGM’s CEO, Rodolphe Saadé.

The deal aligns with CMA CGM’s global port expansion strategy, adding to its portfolio of 60 terminals worldwide and positioning the group as a dominant multi-user terminal operator.

The transaction is expected to accelerate investments in Santos Brasil’s terminals, improving capacity and service quality for Brazilian exporters and importers while bolstering CMA CGM’s foothold in Latin America’s maritime trade.

* The SELIC rate is the reference interest rate for the Brazilian economy. The name of the Selic rate comes from the acronym of the Special System for Settlement and Custody (Sistema Especial de Liquidação e de Custódia), base interest rate set by the Brazilian Central Bank serving as the rate for one-day term repo trades of Brazilian federal bonds, as well as its main monetary policy instrument to control the country’s inflation.

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Reload Logistics report maps out future of Southern Africa’s Trade and Transport Corridors

Africa Ports & Ships

Reload Logistics has released a forward-looking industry report titled ‘Unlocking Southern Africa’s Trade Potential in 2025 and Beyond,’ offering new insight into how infrastructure upgrades, digital innovation, and sustainability are reshaping regional logistics.

The report highlights the growing importance of Southern Africa as a global supplier of critical minerals, such as cobalt and copper, which are essential for electric vehicle batteries and the broader shift toward clean energy.

The region currently supplies around 30% of the world’s demand for these minerals, placing it at the center of global green transition efforts.

One of the standout trends in the report is the expansion of strategic trade corridors that are reducing costs and transit times across borders. Key projects include:

• The Kasomeno-Mwenda Road, which cuts over 300km off the traditional DRC-to-Tanzania trade route, enhancing mineral transport efficiency.

• The Dar es Salaam Maritime Gateway Project, which aims to double the port’s capacity to 30 million tons per year by 2030, bolstering Tanzania’s role as a regional logistics hub.

Alongside physical infrastructure improvements, technology-driven logistics solutions are playing a critical role. The report notes that route optimisation technologies have improved efficiency by up to 15%, cutting delivery times and fuel costs.

Sustainability is also emerging as a dominant theme. Reload highlights that global demand for green logistics could hit $350 billion by 2030, prompting regional exporters to adopt lower-carbon transport options and cleaner supply chain practices.

The study further emphasises the impact of port expansions in Durban, Beira, Walvis Bay, and Dar es Salaam, which are unlocking new trade corridors and enhancing regional integration.

With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) projected to boost intra-African trade by more than 50% by 2030, Reload Logistics sees a compelling case for increased investment in both hard and digital infrastructure to close remaining network gaps.

For logistics operators, exporters, and investors seeking to navigate Southern Africa’s fast-evolving trade landscape, the full report offers detailed projections and strategic recommendations.

Download the full report here to explore how your business can stay ahead in the evolving logistics landscape of Southern Africa.

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WHARF TALK: container ships – ONE RESOLUTION, ONE RESILIENCE

Pictures as shown 
Story by Jay Gates

Not long ago there was great hand wringing over the fact that Durban and, especially, Cape Town were considered to be the worst performing container ports on Earth. For shipowners it meant having their vessels languishing out at anchor awaiting a berth, whilst Transnet container terminals operated at productivity levels that were simply abysmal.

When they finally got alongside to start their discharge and loading sequences, the time alongside was measured in days, even weeks at times, rather than hours as happens in equivalent container ports in Asia and Europe. Despite Transnet attempting to turn around that poor performance record, things have only improved slightly, but it would appear that the dreadful performance and productivity issues are back again, especially at Cape Town.

As far back as 9th March, at 18:00 in the early evening, the container vessel ‘ONE Resolution’ (IMO 9952763) arrived off Cape Town, from Durban. Despite operating an express, scheduled, service, she was directed to the Table Bay anchorage to await a berth, where she lay at anchor for an astonishing 19 days, whilst a number of other container vessels went in ahead of her as they each waited, in turn, for an available berth at the Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT).

Finally, on 28th March, at 10:00 in the morning, she was allowed to enter Cape Town harbour, where she proceeded into the Ben Schoeman Dock, and went alongside to begin her long delayed discharge, and loading sequence. I imagine that for the shipowner, charterers, cargo consignees, and consignors, that her time alongside in Cape Town would be expedited to allow ‘ONE Resolution’ to try and claw back some of the scheduled service time lost whilst at anchor.

Built in 2024 by Waigaoqiao shipbuilding at Shanghai in China, ‘ONE Resolution’ is 273 metres in length and has a gross registered tonnage of 74,063 tons. She is powered by a single MAN-B&W 6G80ME-C9 six cylinder, two stroke, main engine producing 38,422 bhp (28,260 kW) which drives a fixed pitch propeller for a service speed of 21 knots.

Her auxiliary machinery includes four Daihatsu 8DC-32(e) generators providing 3,860 kW each, and a single Hyundai V/AD180 emergency generator providing 441 kW. She has two Kangrim Economiser exhaust gas boilers, and a single Kangrim Composite oil fired boiler. For added manoeuvrability ‘ONE Resolution’ has a single bow Kawasaki KT-219B5 transverse thruster providing 2,000 kW.

One of a series of ten sisterships, all designed by the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI), and known as the SDARI 7000 class, ‘ONE Resolution’ has sixteen holds, with a container carrying capacity of 7,098 TEU, and she is fitted with 1,200 reefer plugs. Her cargo holds are covered by two water fire monitors, one mounted on the foremast, and the other mounted above the accommodation block, and capable of reaching any part of the vessel.

Nominally owned by Tongchi International Ship Lease Co. Ltd., of Hong Kong, ‘ONE Resolution’ is formally owned by Seaspan Corporation, of Vancouver in Canada, operated by Ocean Network Express (ONE), of Singapore, and managed by Seaspan Ship Management Ltd., of Hong Kong. ONE operates 240 container vessels, with a total container carrying capacity of 1.9 million TEU, on 165 worldwide services, serving 244 ports, in 120 countries.

ONE are famous for choosing a bright Magenta hull colour for their vessels, and were formed in 2017 from the decision of the three largest Japanese shipping companies that whilst they would compete against each other on certain trades, they would also join forces on others, notably on container trades. Hence Mitsui OSK Lines, NYK Lines, and K Lines, joined forces to create ONE.

The integration of the three container businesses, into one operation, also created new services. One of these is that which ‘ONE Resolution currently serves, namely the South Africa Rainbow Express (SRX) service, and which operates a scheduled itinerary of London- Rotterdam- Bremerhaven- Algeciras- Ngqura- Durban- Cape Town- London.

The SRX service claim is advertised as providing a ‘Fast Transit time from South Africa to Europe, designed for Perishables and Fresh Fruits’. Transnet service provision is hitting that claim hard.

To get an idea of how bad this service delivery is currently, one has to look at her schedule prior to her arrival in Durban on her current voyage. Previously arriving at the London Thames Gateway container port on 28th January, ‘ONE Resolution’ spent 17 hours alongside, at Rotterdam is was 56 hours (her biggest turnaround), at Bremerhaven it was 40 hours, at Algeciras it was 32 hours (at two terminals), and at Ngqura is was a creditable 33 hours. Her time alongside in Durban amounted to 107 hours (four and half days), prior to her Cape Town arrival.

Her time alongside in Cape Town, for both discharging and loading, amounted to a staggering 181 hours, and after more than one week alongside, she was finally ready to sail for Europe. At 01:00 in the early hours of 5th April she finally departed from Cape Town, with her next port showing on her AIS as London Thames Gateway. She arrived there on 22nd April at 20:00, and after just 13 hours alongside, she departed for Rotterdam at 09:00 on 23rd April.

The casual maritime observer might think that this was an aberration, a one-off, a series of unfortunate, and badly timed delays. But then the next ONE vessel operating on the SRX service, sistership ‘ONE Resilience’, arrived off Cape Town, from Durban, at 15:00 in the afternoon of 6th April. She also was sent straight to the Table Bay anchorage, where she was left languishing for over eleven days, whilst awaiting her turn to come alongside the CTCT whenever a berth was made available.

She finally came alongside berth 604 at 21:00 in the evening of 17th April, and finally completed her discharge and onload sequence after six days, at 19:00 on 23rd April, after 142 hours alongside. She sailed for London Thames Gateway at 20:00 in the evening of 23rd April. A comparative look at her turnaround times on her previous SRX service again tells its own story.

She had arrived at London on 24th February at 13:00, departing at 12:00 on 25th February after 23 hours alongside, then to Rotterdam where she spent 108 hours (another major turnaround), Bremerhaven it was 27 hours, Algeciras was 44 hours (at two terminals), and then direct to Durban where she spent 66 hours on her turnaround, prior to sailing for her Cape Town call.

Sadly, times at the Durban container terminal, but especially at the Cape Town Container Terminal, appear to be sliding once more, and it is not yet winter, when genuine reasons of bad weather can be attributed to poor productivity. With these ongoing issues, it is not likely that Durban, and Cape Town, are likely to be climbing up the worldwide efficient container port table any time soon.

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INTERCARGO hails ILO recognition of seafarers as key workers under Maritime Labour Convention

Africa Ports & Ships

London – The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has welcomed a landmark decision by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to formally recognise seafarers as key workers under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) — a move hailed as a pivotal moment in advancing maritime labour rights and ensuring the welfare of those at sea.

The long-awaited recognition strengthens the legal and institutional framework surrounding seafarers’ access to medical care, freedom of movement, and fair legal treatment, reinforcing their status as essential to the global supply chain.

“This recognition is both symbolic and substantive — a major win for the maritime community and a direct response to the urgent calls we made throughout the COVID-19 crisis,” said John Xylas, Chairman of INTERCARGO.

“It acknowledges the essential role played by seafarers in global trade and the daily sacrifices they make. But more importantly, it now demands that governments act to implement and enforce these rights.”

Throughout the pandemic, INTERCARGO was vocal in its calls for governments and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to treat seafarers as essential workers.

The organisation pushed for safe and efficient crew changes, prioritised vaccination, and better international coordination to alleviate the strain on maritime personnel, many of whom were stranded at sea for extended periods.

The ILO’s updated MLC reference now includes guidelines for the fair treatment of seafarers in cases of detention, investigation, or criminalisation—an area long seen as a grey zone in maritime law.

“Seafarers must never become collateral victims of institutional inefficiencies or regulatory blind spots,” said Xylas. “We now urge all ILO member states and maritime administrations to follow through with effective, consistent implementation.

“Recognition alone is not enough — rights must be realised in practice,” Xylas said.

INTERCARGO emphasised that the decision comes at a critical time for the dry bulk sector and the wider shipping industry, where recruitment and retention remain ongoing challenges.

The association continues to advocate for a maritime sector that provides safe, respected, and sustainable careers.

“We must guarantee a fair future for our seafarers,” concluded Xylas. “They deserve no less.”

See related report ‘New Maritime Labour Convention amendments Boosting seafarers’ conditions‘ here

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INS Sunayna arrives in Mozambique under SAGAR Mission, strengthening regional maritime ties

Africa Ports & Ships

The Indian Navy’s advanced offshore patrol vessel, INS Sunayna P57, arrived at Nacala Port, Mozambique on 17 April 2025, for a three-day port call as part of India’s ongoing maritime diplomacy initiative, SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

This visit marks a significant step in enhancing India’s strategic outreach and cooperative engagement with nations across the Indian Ocean Region.

Flagged off from Karwar on 5 April by India’s Raksha Mantri (Defence Minister), INS Sunayna is currently leading the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) deployment, which includes 44 naval personnel from nine partner nations: Mozambique, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.

The presence of these multinational crew members reflects India’s broader goal of strengthening interoperability and fostering maritime collaboration.

During its time in Mozambique, INS Sunayna is engaging in joint training exercises and community outreach with the Mozambique Navy and local maritime agencies. Activities include:

• Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills
• Firefighting and damage control exercises
• A deck reception for local officials and dignitaries

These collaborative efforts aim to enhance capacity building, mutual operational understanding, and maritime domain awareness, especially vital in safeguarding Mozambique’s waters and economic interests.

As part of the visit’s culmination, INS Sunayna will carry out a joint surveillance operation in Mozambique’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), in cooperation with embarked personnel from the Mozambique Navy.

This operation underscores a shared commitment to ensuring maritime security, countering illicit activities, and promoting a free and open Indian Ocean.

Built by Goa Shipyard in India, INS Sunayna is a Saryu-class patrol vessel known for its versatility in coastal and offshore operations, including surveillance, maritime interdiction, and humanitarian missions.

Its presence in Mozambique not only reflects India’s growing defense manufacturing capabilities but also the strategic intent behind SAGAR — to act as a net security provider in the region.

The port call at Nacala was part of a broader series of engagements by India to build trust and cooperation with African littoral states, underlining New Delhi’s long-term vision for regional integration, security, and shared prosperity across the Indian Ocean.

SA Navy ship commissioning

In other naval news, it is reported that the SA Navy will officially commission the third Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel named SAS Adam Kok III (P1573) at the Durban Naval Base where the patrol vessel is to be based.

The commissioning is due to take place on Friday 25 April on Salisbury Island.

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From Drakensberg to drones: Rethinking South Africa’s naval capabilities

If one of South Africa’s new Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPVs) was to set sail at the tip of the country’s western most border and sail to the easternmost border at 20 knots an hour, it would take the ship 6 ½ days to complete the patrol.

The reality of that situation, says former Dutch naval officer and now Damen Naval senior consultant Ed Veen, is that the three ships envisaged by Project Biro – and made by Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) – will hardly make a dent in protecting South Africa’s maritime integrity.

To properly secure South Africa’s maritime security needs, the relevant defence planners have to consider not what the country’s needs are now, but what they will be like in ten years’ time – as well as what the technology could look like then.

Speaking at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 Conference on maritime security, organised by defenceWeb, Veen said while defence spending was a marathon not a sprint, defence equipment has a very finite lifespan at an average of 30 years from initial deployment before age catches up and seriously affects the equipment’s ability to be multi-tasked or maintained before becoming obsolete.

The problem is that from deciding on what a country needs to secure its sovereignty to actually acquiring the materiel and then deploying it, could take 10 years from devising the policy plan, setting aside the budget, drafting a white paper, issuing a Request for Information and then a Request for Quotations, drafting the contact, doing the build, and then delivering the equipment, by which stage the government would in all probability be on its third administration.

It was vital, Veen said, to understand what a country’s needs are now and then look into the future to see what they will be when the equipment is actually delivered.

In this case, South Arica’s greatest need is the fact that the SAS Drakensberg is past its normal service life at 37 years old, while the River Class Minesweeper SAS Umkomaas was commissioned six years earlier in 1981. The ships’ increasing age makes them difficult to maintain and to re-task because their systems will become obsolete and impossible to upgrade through age.

South Africa, he said, has no maritime disputes to contend with but has major security issues with smuggling, poaching and illegal migration. With at least 90% of all trade to and from South Africa going by sea, which has to be protected within South Africa’s territorial waters, the country’s other concern is the pillaging of its marine resources, when 75% of the major global fisheries have been either over-exploited or already depleted.

“The boundary of the planning process is set by the budget and the challenge is to set the capabilities versus the expected threats.”

Ukraine, Gaza and the Red Sea, however, have created a paradigm shift in how wars are waged, with drones becoming the technology of the future.

“Drones won’t replace service ships, but they will change the way they work,” he said, which is why Damen is proposing that the South African Navy consider building a multi-purpose support ship that would double as a drone mother ship for the fleet to replace the Drakensberg, just as the Portuguese Navy is doing.

“This new type of ship, the Damen MPSS 9000 (LSS-9000 Logistics Support Ship) can support multiple tasks, provide more flexibility in time and design and can have more capabilities added.”

The suggested vessel, at 130 metres in length, would be able to do replenishment at sea, fulfil hydrographic functions and humanitarian missions while conducting law enforcement support both in surveillance and interceptions because of the drones and helicopters it would carry as well as small boats (RHIBs).

The support ship, Veen said, could replace the three ships that the SA Navy needs to replace and could even be built in Cape Town, although the existing shipyards would have to be expanded to do so as the existing infrastructure is a bit small for a vessel of this size.

Written by defenceWeb and republished with permission. The original article can be found here

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New Maritime Labour Convention amendments Boosting seafarers’ conditions

Edited by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

Seafarers are set to benefit from improved working and living conditions following the adoption of important amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006. This was reported by IMO on 17 April.

The IMO which participated in the MLC Special Tripartite Committee meeting at ILO in Geneva from 7 to 11 April welcomed these developments.

To ensure wellbeing at sea

Amendments here reflect a continued commitment by the international community to ensure fair treatment, enhance safety and wellbeing at sea, and recognize the vital contribution of seafarers to global trade.

More specifically the meeting adopted the following amendments:

• Protecting seafarers against violence and harassment on board.

• Calling for the designation and recognition of seafarers as key workers.

• Strengthening the rights of seafarers with respect to shore leave, for the benefit of their health and wellbeing.

• Facilitating the movement of seafarers for the purpose of repatriation.

• Requiring States to cooperate and take due account of the IMO/ILO Guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers in the event of a maritime accident, and the recently adopted IMO/ILO Guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers detained in connection with alleged crimes.
• Recommending that ships have the most up-to-date medical information and guidance on board, to be available for the person responsible for medical care on board.

Expected in force by December 2027

The amendments will now be submitted for approval at the next session of the International Labour Conference, taking place from 2 to 13 June 2025. If endorsed, they are expected to enter into force by December 2027.

Alongside the amendments, the Special Tripartite Committee also adopted a number of key resolutions. Of particular relevance to IMO are the recommendations to extend the mandate of the Joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group (JTWG), to conduct a final review to update the ILO/IMO Joint Database on Abandonment of Seafarers and continue cooperation on seafarers’ welfare.

This meeting in Geneva underscored the power of tripartite dialogue and multilateral cooperation in delivering meaningful, effective solutions to global challenges.

Seafarers’ Group Vice-Chair’s comment

Of the amendments Mark Dickinson of the ILO Seafarers’ group and Vice-Chair said: “For the first time in any ILO instrument we have a reference to seafarers as key workers in the Code.

“How seafarers were treated during Covid-19 cannot be forgotten, and we have made sure, as best we can, that it won’t be repeated. Tripartism once again delivered, and we look forward to continuing to progress and to delivering more for seafarers around the world.”

Full text

Readers are invited to read the full six-page text of the amendments to the MLC: Fifth meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee established under Article XIII of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended Geneva, 7–11 April 2025 by means of the link here

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Bulker Sale and Purchase market cools sharply in Q1 2025 amid market uncertainty

Africa Ports & Ships

The global bulker sale and purchase (S&P) market saw a sharp decline in activity during the first quarter of 2025, with overall transaction volumes falling by approximately 58% year-on-year.

According to VesselsValue data and Veson Nautical’s Rebecca Galanopoulos, just 77 bulker sales were reported so far this year, compared to 182 during the same period in 2024.

A significant contributor to the slowdown appears to be geopolitical and regulatory uncertainty. Since the U.S. proposed port entry fees for Chinese-built vessels in February, appetite for Chinese-built bulkers has dropped markedly.

Only 62 transactions involving Chinese-built bulkers were recorded since February 2025—down from 146 over the same stretch last year, marking another 58% decline.

Shift in Buyer Preference: Japan Takes the Lead

In a noticeable shift in market dynamics, Japan has overtaken China as the top supplier of traded bulkers. While Chinese-built bulkers accounted for roughly 42% of sales in Q4 2024, that figure dropped to 33% in Q1 2025.

Japanese-built vessels, by contrast, comprised approximately 53% of bulker transactions this quarter. South Korean-built vessels trailed with 14%, consistent with their stronger focus on other vessel classes such as LNG carriers.

Despite the dip in resale activity, China remains the world’s dominant builder of bulk carriers. In fact, Chinese shipyards received around 75% of all new bulker orders globally in 2024, highlighting the country’s enduring importance in the sector.

Falling Values and Charter Rates Add to Headwinds

Bulker values across nearly all size segments and age groups have declined year-on-year. For instance, 15-year-old Panamaxes (80,000 DWT) are now priced at roughly USD 14.4 million, down nearly 22% from USD 18.46 million a year ago.

Time charter earnings also reflect a softer market, despite a seasonal rebound. One-year time charter rates for Capesizes dropped 18% year-on-year—from USD 26,965/day in April 2024 to USD 22,131/day this month.

Notable Transactions in a Slower Market

Despite the downtrend, a few notable deals have taken place involving Chinese-built bulkers:

* Sea Marathon (Kamsarmax, 81,900 DWT, Sep 2015, Qingdao Wuchuan) was sold to Modion Maritime Management for USD 18.4 million (VV value: USD 16.69 million).

* BC 134 (Hull) (Ultramax, 63,600 DWT, Nov 2025, Nantong Xiangyu) went to undisclosed Greek buyers for USD 35 million (VV value: USD 34.51 million).

* Lago Di Cancano (Handy, 37,700 DWT, Jan 2014, Qingshan Shipyard) was sold for USD 14 million (VV value: USD 14.41 million).

With global market forces and policy shifts continuing to reshape demand, the S&P market for bulkers may remain cautious in the coming months.

More information is available from  https://www.veson.com

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WHARF TALK: round-the-world cruise ship – MSC MAGNIFICA

Pictures by ‘Dockrat’
Story by Jay Gates

The second of the MSC passenger cruise liners on the South African coast at the same time (see MSC Euribia in yesterday’s edition, available further down this page), was MSC Magnifica.

On 16th April, at 06:00 in the morning, the passenger cruise liner ‘MSC Magnifica’ (IMO 9387085) arrived off Cape Town, from Port Elizabeth. She entered Cape Town harbour, proceeded into the Duncan Dock, and went alongside the Passenger Cruise Terminal at E berth.

Unlike ‘MSC Euribia’, she was on a major cruise, and a flood of passengers disembarked to see the sights of Cape Town, the Winelands and the Cape Peninsula, whilst the Cape Town harbour bunker tanker came alongside to begin her task of transferring bunkers to her client.

Built in 2010 by Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard at St. Nazaire, ‘MSC Magnifica’ is 294 metres in length and has a gross registered tonnage of 95,128 tons. She is a diesel electric vessel and power is provided by five Wärtsilä 16V38B generators providing 11,600 each, giving s total of 58,000 kW of power for both domestic and propulsion requirements. Power is transferred to two Converteam electric motors, each of 17,500 kW, which drive two fixed pitch propellers for a service speed of 22 knots.

Her auxiliary machinery includes two emergency generators. She has five Alfa Laval Aalborg CHR Economiser exhaust gas boilers and two Alfa Laval Aalborg CHO Unex oil fired boilers. For added manoeuvrability ‘MSC Magnifica’ has three bow Brunvoll transverse thrusters providing 2,300 kW each, and two stern Brunvoll transverse thrusters providing 2,000 kW each. For added passenger comfort at sea she is fitted with twin Rolls-Royce fin stabilisers.

There are a total of 16 decks on ‘MSC Magnifica’, with thirteen of them given over to passenger use, and eight of these allocated for cabins. There are 1,257 cabins in total, of which 80% of them are outside cabins, and 65% of these have balconies. She carries a total of 2,506 passengers in double occupancy, and can carry a maximum of 3,007 passengers, all of whom are looked after by a crew of 1,038.

Her passenger facilities include six restaurants, nine bars, coffee bar, ice cream bar, internet café, two lounges, cigar lounge, theatre, cinema, discotheque, casino, poker room, card room, library, meeting room, boutiques and shops, art gallery, spa, solarium, steam room, sauna, gymnasium, treatment rooms, beauty salon, outdoor movie screen, kids club, juniors club, teens club, ten pin bowling alley, mini golf course, quoit and shuffleboards, basketball court, volleyball court, paddle tennis court, power walking track, three swimming pools and nine Jacuzzi whirlpools.

She is the fourth of a class of four sisterships, known as the Musica class, with ‘MSC Magnifica’ costing US$550 million (ZAR10.36 billion) to build. She is owned by Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) SpA, of Naples in Italy, and operated by MSC Crociere SpA, of Genoa in Italy, with management undertaken by Mediterranean Shipping Company, of Geneva in Switzerland.

Her visit to South African shores is due to her conducting a 120 day, 46 port, round the world cruise which began from Rome on 4th January, with an itinerary of Civitavecchia- Genoa- Marseille- Barcelona- Malaga- Casablanca- Mindelo (Cape Verde Islands)- Salvador- Rio de Janeiro (both Brazil)- Buenos Aires- Puerto Madryn (both Argentina)- Port Stanley (Falkland Islands)- Ushuaia (Argentina)- Puerto Chacabuco- Puerto Montt- Valparaiso- Easter Island (all Chile)- Papeete- Moorea (both French Polynesia)- Aitutaki- Rarotonga (both Cook Islands)- Bay of Islands- Auckland- Tauranga- Lyttelton- Dunedin- Fiordland (all New Zealand).

Her itinerary continued from New Zealand with calls at Hobart- Sydney- Eden- Melbourne- Adelaide- Kangaroo Island- Albany- Busselton- Fremantle (all Australia)- Male (Maldives)- Victoria (Seychelles)- Nosy Be (Madagascar)- Port Elizabeth (14th April 0700-1900)- Cape Town (16th April 0600-1800)- Walvis Bay (18th April 0900-1800)- Dakar (Senegal)- Fuerteventura (Canary Islands)- Palermo (Italy)- Civitavecchia, where the cruise will terminate on 4th May.

The very interesting thing about this round the world itinerary, from the South African perspective, is that once again Durban fails to get a call, and this is a port which hosts as a base for an MSC Cruise liner throughout every austral summer.

It seems strange that with MSC Cruises planners being able to select the round the world routing of their choice, that the leg from the Indian Ocean islands to South Africa bypasses the busiest port in Southern Africa, and a major base for MSC, cruises or otherwise. Is there is a trend here?

Whilst in Cape Town ‘MSC Magnifica’ also took the opportunity of carrying out a crew change, with many of the new crew being spotted boarding the vessel with their own luggage. At the scheduled time of 18:00 on the early evening of 16th April, she pulled away from E berth, and made her way out of Cape Town harbour, now bound for Walvis Bay.

Whilst ‘MSC Magnifica’ made her way north at 20 knots, past Cape Columbine, bound for Namibia, ‘MSC Euribia’ was approaching Cape Agulhas, also at 20 knots, making her way towards Europe. For the casual maritime observer, the likelihood of two MSC cruise liners pounding along the South Africa coast at the same time is not going to be one that is going to be repeated any time soon.

Added 22 April 2025

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Western Indian Ocean naval ties strengthened

by defenceWeb

While the inaugural Africa/India Key Maritime Engagement (Aikeyme) was underway last week off Tanzania, another component of maritime defence diplomacy played out in India with high level flag officer meetings.

Spanish Vice Admiral Ignacio Villanueva, current Operation Atalanta commander, met with Commander-in-Chief of India’s Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sanjay Sasjit Singh and Assistant Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral SR Sequira.

He also teleconferenced with Vice Admiral AN Pramod, Indian Navy Director-General Naval Operations. Villanueva’s visit to the sub-continent was a first for the European Union (EU) tasking in the Western Indian Ocean.

“Core topics” for the visit, as per a statement issued by the long-running EU naval operation, included enhancing Atalanta/Indian Navy operational co-operation as well as building and strengthening relationships.

At the Indian Navy’s western command, which includes the western Indian Ocean in its area of operations (AoO), Villanueva and his counterparts exchanged views on the AoO. Also on his itinerary was the Indian Navy Information Fusion Centre (IFC) where “productive discussions” on improving the IFC Atalanta Maritime Security Centre Indian Ocean (MSCIO) relationship took place.

Since its establishment 16 years ago, Atalanta has had good relations with the Indian Navy – testimony of a shared commitment to ensuring maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean. Joint at sea “activities” in 2022 were a further contribution to freedom of navigation as well as strengthening the relationship.

Aikeyme

Meanwhile, the inaugural Aikeyme wrapped up on 18 April in Dar es Salaam. The exercise aimed to strengthen regional maritime security and promote cooperation among participating nations. It featured a range of drills and operations involving various participating navies.

The exercise officially began on 13 April in Dar-es-Salaam, marking what the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) said was a significant step in strengthening maritime cooperation between India and African nations.

The harbour phase began on 13 April and concluded on 15 April. Joint training sessions for Indian Navy and Tanzanian Navy personnel on damage control, fire fighting, seamanship evolutions, small arms and boat handling procedures were conducted by the Kolkata class stealth guided missile destroyer INS Kesari along with a specialist team from the Shardul class tank landing ship INS Chennai, while a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) and Command Post Exercise (CPX) were conducted at the Shule Ya Ubaharia (Naval Training School) in Dar-es-Salaam.

The harbour phase also featured a defence exposition in which 22 Indian firms showcased advanced technologies, including surveillance and communication systems.

Aikeyme 2025 participants

The sea phase commenced on 16 April and focused on seamanship evolutions, search and rescue, VBSS (visit, board, search and seizure), small arms firing and helicopter operations, the Indian Navy said.

Around 10 ships took part in the drills, along with an Indian Navy P-8I long-range maritime surveillance aircraft. The Kenya Navy contributed the offshore patrol vessel KNS Jasiri and patrol vessel KNS Shupavu, along with the Special Boats Unit (SBU).

Aikeyme 25, meaning ‘Unity’ in Sanskrit, saw participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa, alongside India and Tanzania.

Coinciding with Aikeyme is the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) IOS Sagar initiative, which aims to enhance cooperation with Indian Ocean Region nations.

It is seeing the Saryu-class patrol vessel INS Sunayna deployed to the Southwest Indian Ocean Region between 5 April and 8 May with a combined crew of Indian and 44 foreign crewmembers from Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.

INS Sunayna entered Dar-es-Salaam on 12 April for Aikeyme and departed two days later for her next stop in Nacala, Mozambique. After a three-day port visit, INS Sunayna departed for Port Louis, Mauritius.

Written by defenceWeb and republished with permission. The original article can be found here

Watch now a Youtube account of the exercise [First 17:30 minutes, after that the video repeats]

Added 22 April 2025

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Arkas Line strengthens West Africa presence with dedicated fleet deployment

Africa Ports & Ships

Arkas Line is stepping up its commitment to West Africa by deploying its own vessels exclusively on the region’s trade lane, marking a significant milestone in its operational strategy and regional expansion.

Since launching services in Africa in 2012, the Turkey-based container carrier has steadily grown its footprint across the continent, offering tailored, customer-centric logistics solutions.

The latest development sees Arkas Line taking full control of its West Africa Service (WAS), with four of its own vessels — Mario A, Cristina A, Jean Pierre A, and Diane A — each with a capacity of 1,600 TEU, now dedicated to the route.

This move follows Arkas Line’s recent entry into the Indian market with its ‘India Med Service,’ and underscores the company’s strategy to strengthen its global network with a focus on efficiency, flexibility, and reliability.

Operating on a weekly schedule, the enhanced WAS route: Tangier – Casablanca – Dakar – Lagos (Tincan / Apapa) – Tema – Abidjan – Nouakchott – Tangier — is designed to offer shorter transit times and greater service flexibility, helping customers navigate the complexities of West African trade more effectively.

By leveraging its operational know-how and strong local presence, Arkas Line is positioning itself as a more competitive player in the region, supporting its long-term vision of sustainable growth and customer excellence in emerging markets.

Added 22 April 2025

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in partnership with – APO

Total cargo handled by tonnes during February 2025, including containers by weight

• see full report for the latest month and year in the news section

PORT	February 2025 – million tonnes
Richards Bay	7.092
Durban	6,201
Saldanha Bay	5.425
Cape Town	1.457
Port Elizabeth	0.946
Ngqura	1.436
Mossel Bay	0.074
East London	0.358
Total all ports during February 2025	22.990 million tonnes

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Terry Hutson