EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AAMA/EXCO/03 THIRD SESSION APRIL, 2019

ENGLISH ONLY

REPORT OF THE 3RD SESSION OF ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN MARITIME ADMINISTRATIONS (AAMA) EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (EXCO)

1.0 Commencement/Introduction

1.1 The 3rd Session of AAMA Executive Council was held in Casablanca Morocco from 17th-18th April 2019 under the host-ship of the Merchant Du Marine Directorate, Morocco. The Chairman of AAMA/Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside presided over the Executive Council meeting which commenced at 9.45am. He welcomed all delegates to the meeting and apologised for starting behind schedule.

1.2. Brief on the AssociationThe Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) is the coordinating body for Maritime Administrations in Africa which was established pursuant to Article 5 of the African Maritime Transport Charter (AMTC).

1.3 An eleven (11) Member Executive Council (EXCO) was constituted under the Chairmanship of Nigeria at the 3rd Conference of AAMA held in Abuja Nigeria in April, 2017.

1.4 The membership of the Executive Council is drawn from representatives of Central Africa (Cameroun and Cape Verde), West Africa (Ivory Coast and

1

Ghana), East Africa (Tanzania and Comoros), Southern Africa (Mozambique and South Africa), North Africa (Egypt and Sudan) and Uganda representing land locked Countries.

1.5. Previous MeetingsThe Executive Council held its 1st Session at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) Abu Kir campus, Alexandria, Egypt on 18th September, 2017.The meeting was hosted by AASTMT which has Observer Status with AAMA.

1.6 The Executive Council held its 2nd Session at Hotel Farah, Mombasa Kenya under the host-ship of the Kenya Maritime Authority from 6-7 February 2018.

2.0 Adoption of Agenda and Programme of Activities

2.1 The Agenda for the 3rd Session of AAMA Executive Council marked as Annex A to this document was considered after which the Chairman called for adoption. Liberia moved for the adoption of the Agenda which was seconded by Ghana.

2.2 The Full report and resolutions reached at the 3rd Session of EXCO with regard to the various agenda items are set out hereunder.

3.0 Welcome Address by the Host: Merchant Du Marine Directorate, Morocco.

3.1 The Director, Merchant Du Marine Directorate, Morocco Ms. Amane Fethallah in her address welcomed delegates to the 3rd Session of AAMA Executive Council. She expressed her pleasure at the choice of Morocco as host Administration.

3.2 She gave a short brief on the roles of the Merchant du Marine Directorate of Morocco. She expressed optimism that AAMA will continue to provide leadership in policy integration and collaboration in the continent as a

2

means of realising continental synergy in putting Africa in the global maritime map.

3.3 She further informed delegates that arrangements had been made for visits to the Port of Casablanca and the Higher Education Insitutute at the end of the meeting and called on interested persons to indicate interest.

3.4 Before concluding her address, she notified the Chairman and all delegates that a closing Dinner would be held in another hotel at the pleasure of the Honourable Minister of Transportation and that Embassies and Top government officials in Morocco have been invited as a way of showing the appreciation of the Kingdom of Morocco to AAMA for choosing Casablanca as a destination for the 3rd AAMA EXCO meeting.

4.0 Opening Remarks by the Chairman Association of African Maritime Administration (AAMA)

4.1 The Chairman in his opening remarks welcomed the delegates to the 3rd Session of the Executive Council (EXCO) of the Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA). He expressed special gratitude to the Director, Merchant Marine Du Directorate Morocco, Ms. Amane Fethallah for agreeing at short notice to host the 3rd Session of EXCO in Morocco.

4.2 He recalled that during the 1st Executive Council of AAMA held at Arab Academy of Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) in Alexandria, Egypt on 18th September, 2017, it was unanimously agreed that non-member countries of EXCO would be invited to its sessions to ensure a wider participation of all member countries in the affairs of AAMA.

4.3 He further recalled that at the 2nd Session of EXCO held in Mombasa, Kenya on the 6th of February, 2018 under the host-ship of Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), non-members from the maritime administrations of Kenya and Seychelles participated in addition to the Six (6) EXCO Members in attendance from Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, Ghana, Mozambique and South Sudan. Also in attendance were delegations from Port Management

3

Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA) and Kenya Shipping Line under the umbrella of African Ship-owners Association.

4.4 The Chairman notified members that the report of the 2nd AAMA EXCO which was presented during the 4th AAMA Conference held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt from 16-19 September, 2018 would be formally adopted at the meeting to herald the 3rd Session of AAMA Executive Council. He commended the Secretariat team for diligently ensuring that documents are transmitted to member countries at all times.

4.5 The Chairman emphasised that the doggedness of the Merchant Marine Director and her team as well as the attraction of Casablanca, Morocco as a destination had yielded very good fruit, as it was the first time, most member countries of EXCO notably Cape Verde, Ghana, Tanzania, Comoros, Mozambique, South Africa, Sudan, Uganda and Nigeria, a total of nine (9) out of the Twelve (12) Members were in attendance.

4.6 In addition, the Chairman welcomed in a special way other delegates from Kenya, Morocco, Sierra Leone, Tunisia and Liberia as well as members with Observer Status of AAMA; the Arab Academy of Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) which hosted the 1st Session of EXCO in Alexandria Egypt in September 2017, the Arab Federation of Chambers of Shipping (AFCS), Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) and Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA).

4.7 He further pointed out that invitation was extended to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to participate in the meeting as observer, but IMO sent a letter of apology with a pledge to continue to support AAMA in hosting its Conferences.

4.8 He reiterated that Maritime Administrations in Africa have the collective responsibility to give effect to the decisions made by African Heads of States during the adoption of Maritime instruments and Charters such as the African Maritime Transport Charter (AMTC), African Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS) 2050 and the 2016 Lome Charter by ensuring

4

their ratification, domestication and full implementation to ensure the competiveness of Africa’s Maritime Domain.

4.9 The Chairman recalled the events of the 4th AAMA Conference hosted by Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety (EAMS) in collaboration with the Egyptian Government in the magnificent city of Sharm El Sheikh from 16-19 September, 2018 which would be presented as an Agenda item. He also pointed out that in November 2018, AAMA participated in the Global Conference on Sustainable Blue Economy held in Nairobi, Kenya.

4.10 He beckoned on members and all delegates to fully participate and make meaningful contributions to the meeting, to help achieve the goals for which AAMA was set, particularly in building more competitive and vibrant maritime and shipping sector for the African continent.

4.11 The Chairman once again on behalf of all the Executive Council of AAMA expressed the gratitude and deep appreciation of AAMA to Ms. Amane Fethallah, Merchant Du Marine Directorate, Morocco for her resourcefulness; Salim CHEIKH, Head of International Cooperation & IMO Relations Morocco and all those who worked behind the scene to ensure the 3rd Session of AAMA was successfully held in Casablanca Morocco.

5.0 ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

5.1 Report of the Head AAMA Secretariat on Credentials

5.1.1 The Executive Council noted the information contained in Document marked as Exco 3/1 INF (Secretariat) which contained the report on credentials of delegates from nine (9) out of the Twelve (12) Member Countries. The credentials were noted to be in due and proper form, thereby meeting the quorum for the meeting. The Countries were Nigeria, Sudan, South Africa, Ghana, Mozambique, Tanzania, Cape Verde, Uganda, and Comoros.

5

5.1.2 The Executive Council further noted that Morocco, Tunisia and Liberia were in attendance in honour of the invitation to attend the 3rd Session of AAMA Executive Council and to encourage wider participation.

5.1.3 The presence of bodies conferred with observer status of AAMA such as Arab Academy for Science and Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), Arab Federation of Chamber of Shipping (AFCS), Women in Maritime in East and Central Africa (WOMESA) and Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) was duly noted.

5.1.4 The meeting noted the absence of Cameroun, Cote d’Ivoire and Egypt.

5.2 Adoption of Report of the 2nd Session of AAMA Executive Council

5.2.1 The Report of the 2nd Session of the Executive Council held on 6th February 2018 at Farah Hotel, Kenya under the host-ship of the Kenya Maritime Authority was presented.

5.2.2 The Chairman called for comments on the report before its adoption.

5.2.3 The delegate from Uganda whilst thanking the Secretariat for an excellent job suggested that future reports should be made on both sides of the paper to reduce the volume of document circulated. He further stated that it was the first time for Ugand to attend the Executive Council meeting and requested that reports and documents be uploaded on AAMA website as soon as possible.

5.2.4 In the absence of further comments, South Africa moved for adoption of the report and was seconded by Kenya. The report stood as adopted.

6.0 Presentation of Framework for Implementation of Article II of AAMA Constitution (Budget and Expenses).

6

6.1 The Head Secretariat presented the document marked as EXCO 3/6 which contained background information on framework for implementation of Article 11 of AAMA Constitution (Budget and Expenses) and the Annexture containing details of work of the working group presented during the Business Session of the 4th AAMA Conference in 2018.

6.1.1 The Secretariat recalled that during the 2nd Session of EXCO, extensive deliberations were held on the issue of budget to run the expenses of AAMA.

6.1.2 It was further recalled that after due consideration of the interim budget estimates for funding the activities of AAMA presented by the Secretariat, a Budget Team headed by Ghana and made up of Kenya, South Africa, Seychelles, Sudan and Nigeria was set up to:

Prepare a Short Term Business Plan or Programme of Action (3 Year Plan) for AAMA covering one (1) Annual Conference and one (1) Executive Meeting in a given year.

Review the proposed budgetary heads in line with the business plan and prepare a tentative budget for discussion by Council and Submission to the General Assembly for consideration during the 4th AAMA Conference.

6.1.3 The Executive Council was invited to recall that the document marked as Agenda Item 6 Annex was presented at the 4th AAMA General Assembly held in September, 2018 and that though the General Assembly approved the budget and Scale of Assessment in principle to serve as guide for allocation of contributions to member Countries, it was agreed that effective implementation will only commence after countries have deposited instruments of Membership of AAMA with the Secretariat in line with Article 4 of the AAMA Constitution.

6.1.4 The Head Secretariat further pointed out that despite several notifications issued to Member Countries, the level of compliance had remained all-time low. The Secretariat informed the meeting that it had received instruments

7

of membership from only Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea Bissua, Liberia, Madagascar, Nigeria, Somalia, South Africa and most recently São Tomé e Príncipe, bringing the number to nine (9) fully fledged member countries of AAMA.

6.1.5 The delegate from Kenya sought clarifications on its membership status, which the Secretariat promised to verify and revert. The Head, Seretariat further lamented the-low level of deposition, despite the several notifications duly sent to all Maritime Administrations and relevant Ministries of Transportation as agreed during the 2nd session of EXCO.

6.1.6 The delegate from South Africa called on the Executive Council to seek clarification on what may be hindering most African Countries from depositing their instrument of membership.

6.1.7 Most of the delegates also pointed out that bureaucracy was a major factor and also the fact that some Administrations were yet to achieve autonomy, which will help expedite actions on pertinent issues.

6.1.8 It was also agreed that the goals of AAMA must be clearly defined and set out to address issues around Maritime Safety, Security and Environment as well as Seafarers well-being.

6.1.9 It was further agreed that clearly defined objectives and activities of AAMA will help Ministries of Transport and Maritime Administrations understand the importance of AAMA as the continental body with key responsibility of driving the African Union Agenda encapsulated in AIMS 2050 Africa Transport Maritime Charter and Lome Charter and other maritime safety and security frameworks adopted by the African Union.

6.1.10 It was suggested by the delegate from AASTMT that AAMA should approach Continental and International donor Agencies such as NIPPON Foundation to see how they can support the activities of the Association.

8

6.1.11 Delegates were unanimous in agreeing that it was important to widely publicize the work of AAMA and also strategically engage the African Union Commission and Ministries of Transport and Foreign Affairs in African Countries to stimulate more understanding of the role of AAMA as a Continental body.

6.2 Scale of Assessment of Contributions to the Budget

6.2.1 Following the comment by some delegates on how the scale of assessment of contributions was arrived at. The Head, Secretariat explained that the working group had applied a scale based on standards adopted by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), International Labour Organisation (ILO) and International Seabed Authority (ISBA) which are all United Nations Bodies.

6.2.2 The working group chaired by Ghana also collaborated the above statement.

6.2.3 Delegates agreed that though budget and scale of fees had been approved in principle by the General Assembly, the budgetary cost of 3,000 USD on cadetship programme should be expunged and the date on the budget amended to commence from 2020.

6.2.4 The Chairman of AAMA and the Head Secretariat were commended for the progress made so far in constructively driving the objectives of AAMA despite the lack of funding. It further agreed that the steps being taken by AAMA were in the right directions.

6.2.5 The AAMA Secretariat was advised to provide a comprehensive database of Maritime Administrations with at least 4 contact details from each Administration as that would ensure continuity in attending meetings and a means of enlarging the network and disseminating information.

9

6.3 ResolutionsAfter extensive deliberations, the following resolutions were reached:

i. The draft Budget and the Scale of Assessment of contributions for Member Countries already approved in principle during the 4th AAMA Conference to commence in 2020 as amended.

ii. Countries that have forwarded instruments of membership of AAMA to the Secretariat in South Africa but yet to receive acknowledgment were requested to resend the instrument as soon as possible.

iii. The Secretariat to drive enlightenment campaigns showcasing the works of AAMA by issuing newsletters, flyers and email notifications circulated to all countries through their respective Ministries of Transport and Foreign Affairs to stimulate deeper understanding of the objectives and goals of AAMA.

iv. The AAMA Secretariat to write and seek support of the African Union Commission (AUC) in reaching out to member countries through the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs, inorder to fastrack the deposition of instruments of AAMA membership to the Secretariat in South Africa.

v. The Secretariat to forward letters to various Maritime Administrations to liaise and follow up with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Transport in their respective countries to facilitate the deposition of instruments of membership of AAMA.

vi. Member countries to note the importance of the existing instruments endorsed by African Heads of States: African Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS 2050), African Charter on Maritime Security and Safety and Development in Africa (Lome Charter 2016), Agenda 2063, Revised African Transport Charter 2010 and include same in their national maritime strategy to strengthen implementation.

vii. AAMA to approach donor Agencies/Foundations in Africa and beyond to support in funding its activities.

10

7.0 Update on Proposed Courtesy Visit to African Union Commission (AUC)

7.1. Delegates were invited to note the information contained in the document marked as Agenda EXCO 3/7 on the proposed courtesy visit to Chairman African Union. Delegates were further invited to note that the office of the Chairman had as far back as May 2017 written several letters and reminders to the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission requesting for a courtesy visit by the Executive Council of AAMA but was yet to receive feedback.

7.2 Attention was drawn to the following thematic issues which were to be discussed with the Chairman AUC:

Implementation of the Regional Initiative on Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea;

Establishment of Maritime Structure in the African Union; AU’s Observer Status in the IMO the role so far. Significance of the African Day of the Seas and Oceans; Facilitate the establishment of Stand Alone Maritime Administrations in

the African Countries where they currently don’t exist.

7.3 The Executive Council noted the information Contained in document EXCO 3/7 referring to several efforts made to secure a visit to the Chairperson AUC.

7.4 The delegates commended the effort made sofar by the Chairman to secure an appointment for the proposed visit by EXCO.

7.5 ResolutionsAfter extensive deliberations, delegates resolved that:

The Secretariat and Office of the Chairman should forward another letter to the Chairperson, African Union Commission on the proposed visit by AAMA, fully specifying the purpose of the visit.

A progress Report detailing the activities of AAMA and its achievements to be prepared and forwarded along with the letter to showcase the

11

important role AAMA plays in contributing to the economic growth of the continent.

Contact Persons working with African Union Commission to be identified to help facilitate the meeting with AU Chairman.

8.0 The Role of AAMA in the Implementation of Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS) 2050

8.1 Delegates were invited to note the information contained in the document marked as EXCO 3/8, containing information on the role of AAMA in the implementation of 2050 Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS)

8.2 Delegates were invited to recall that during the 4th AAMA Conference, it was agreed that the African Maritime Transport Charter which gave impetus to the establishment of AAMA also identified the body as the catalyst for driving the implementation of the 2050 AIMS.

8.3 Delegates noted the information in the document detailing the Action Plan for implementing AIMS 2050 for the period of 2019 – 2021

8.4 The Chairman noted that AAMA was yet to take definite steps in implementation of the action plans.

8.5 Most of the delegates commented on the action plan which they agreed was laudable but should be amended to include appropriate time lines in order of priority.

8.6 ResolutionsAfter extensive deliberations, the following resolutions were reached: Information in the document adopted in its entirety as a working tool. Delegates from Ghana, Tanzania, Mozambique, Morocco and Liberia to

independently develop a 3 year strategic plan for the implementation of AIMS 2050 within a time frame of 12 weeks using the document as guide.

12

The draft action plan should be forwarded to the AAMA Secretariat on completion, to harmonize and circulate to all members.

9.0 Maritime Celebrations and Arrangements for Future Meetings

9.1 Maritime Celebrations

9.1.1 The EXCO considered the information contained in document marked as EXCO Agenda 3/9 which drew attention to notable maritime celebrations in 2019 and future conferences and meetings of AAMA.

9.1.2 Delegates were called to give updates on preparations for the following maritime celebrations highlighted in 2019: Day of the Seafarers - 25th June; African Day of the Seas and Oceans - 25th July; World Maritime Day - 28th September.

9.1.3 The delegate from Morocco notified the meeting that Morocco was set to host an event in 2019 targeted at women in maritime and would issue appropriate notification in due course.

9.1.4 The delegates from Liberia also pointed out that Liberia had hosted a World Ocean Conference which was attended by IMO and that as part of its plan to celebrate women in line with IMO’s theme for World Maritime Day, Liberia was offering tuition free scholarships targeted at females wishing to pursue careers in maritime.

9.1.5 Other delegates from Tanzania, Ghana, South Africa and Nigeria made comments on the activities lined up in their countries to celebrate the various events.

9.1.6 The delegate representing Women in Maritime in East and Southern Africa (WOMESA), enumerated the various activities the body had driven to implement gender policies to enhance the role of women in maritime emphasising that WOMESA would key into all the maritime activities. She

13

called on Maritime Administrations in Africa to support WOMESA’s strategic plans through funding and sponsorships.

9.1.7 The delegate from Tunisia also used the opportunity to invite other delegates and AAMA member countries to its Blue Economy Conference scheduled in the last week of June 2019

9.2 Future Conferences/Meetings

9.2.1 Delegates were further invited to recall that future AAMA Conference and Executive Council meeting had been scheduled to hold as follows:

5th AAMA Conference – South Africa 2020 6th AAMA Conference – Seychelles 2021 7th AAMA Conference – Morocco 2022

Executive Council Meeting4th Executive Council meeting to be hosted by Equatorial Guinea in Q1 2020

9.2.2 The delegates from South Africa affirmed SAMSA’s willingness to host the 5th AAMA Conference in 2020 together with World Maritime Day parallel event. More details to be forwarded to the AAMA Chairman in due course.

9.2.3 The delegates from South Africa suggested that Regional meetings could be held to help in disseminating information to other member countries and ensure a more effective follow up of resolutions reached at Executive Council meetings.

9.2.4 The suggestion by South Africa was noted. The Chairman pointed out that hosting more than one EXCO meeting in a year would become burdensome on most administrations due to cost of travel.

9.2.5 It was agreed that a more proactive means of reaching out to Members and sharing information would be adopted.

14

9.3 ResolutionsAfter extensive deliberations, it was resolved as follows:

South Africa to confirm date and venue for 5th AAMA Conference in 2020.

Seychelles to confirm hosting of 6th AAMA Conference in 2021. Morocco to confirm hosting of 7th AAMA Conference in 2022. Equatorial Guinea to confirm hosting of 4th session of AAMA

Executive Council in early 2020 failing which Ghana would be notified to host.

The Secretariat of AAMA to be strengthened by ensuring other member countries that make up the composition of the AAMA Secretariat nominate representative to work with SAMSA.

AAMA Secretariat to send early notifications to respective countries to confirm their willingness to host.

10.0 2020 African Maritime Administrations Award (AAMA 2020)

10.1 The Executive Council noted the information provided in documents marked as EXCO 3/10 which contained background information on 2020 Africa Maritime Awards approved to be held in 2020 during the 5th AAMA Conference in South Africa.

10.2 The Executive Council further recalled that the General Assembly approved the following eight (8) categories of award:

i. Port State Administration of the Year

ii. Flag State Administration of the Year

iii. Coastal State Administration of the Year

iv. Maritime Education /Training Award

15

v. Financing for Shipping Award

vi. Maritime Law Award for the Maritime Administration that has domesticated and implements the most IMO/ILO Maritime Conventions.

vii. Lifetime Achievement Award for persons that have contributed to the development of the Maritime Industry

viii. Best Land lock State Award.

10.3 It was further recalled that the following two Events Planners were approved to anchor the media aspect of the event on one hand and actual award on the other hand based on their considered competencies

African Business News- Lead Media Partner ARS Conference services – Awards Planner

10.4 Some delegates were of the view that the membership status of members countries and budget for AAMA should be fully addressed before hosting the African Maritime Administrations Award.

10.5 The Chairman noted the issues raised by some delegates. He recalled the decision taken by the General Assembly during the 4th Conference, that the maritime Awards be held within the margin of the AAMA Conference in 2020 to give the award planners ample time to plan and formally notify AAMA of its preparedness. He called on delegates to give the Award Planners time to revert on the possibility or otherwise. He further assured that deposition of instrument of membership would not be used as a criteria for nomination for award.

10.6 ResolutionsAfter extensive deliberations, it was resolved as follows:

16

That the African Maritime Administrations Award would hold in South Africa in 2020 during the 5th AAMA Conference.

The AAMA Secretariat to notify the event planners; African Business News (ABN) and ARS Conference Services of the criteria and their roles giving them a time frame of 6 months to revert with the strategy for the categories of award and their preparedness to undertake the task.

11.0 Maritime Trade Economy

11.1 Frame work for African Maritime Regulation Country Performance Review

11.1.1 Delegates were invited to note the information contained in document marked as EXCO 3/11 and to recall that the General Assembly during the 4th

AAMA Conference in 2018 considered and approved the circulation of the Flag State Performance Self- Assessment form to all maritime Administrations to serve as a system of Annual Performance Review.

11.1.2 The Secretariat was requested to upload the self-assessment form on the website and also circulate to all Maritime Administrations as the forms would be completed and forwarded to the Executive Council not later than two months preceding an AAMA Conference in a given year. As a preliminary, Member states were encouraged to fill the form and submit by 15th December 2019

11.2 Implementation of Near Coastal Trade Certification and Competency code.

11.2.1 Delegations were further invited to recall that the 4th General Assembly approved that the Near-Coastal Trading Certification and Competency Code developed by South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) be adopted as a model by MARADS to foster economic cooperation.

11.2.2 The delegation from Liberia informed the meeting that Liberia was also working on its regulation for Near-Coastal Trade Certification and requested for an editable version of the work of SAMSA to serve as a guide.

17

11.2.3 The Secretariat was further requested to upload the editable documents on Near Coastal Trade Certificate on the website.

11.3 Country’s Updates on incentives put in place to promote and grow Ship Registries Tonnage.

11.3.1 The delegates from Liberia gave a detailed insight into its Ship Registration Processes as an open Registry and steps taken so far to enhance its operations. The delegates informed EXCO that Liberian Registry was fully automated and digitalized to ensure competitiveness. The delegates also mentioned that waiver on tonnage tax was part of incentives offered to grow the Ship Registry Tonnage in Liberia.

11.3.2 The delegates from South Africa also informed the meeting that it had in place a comprehensive maritime policy with incentives that drives growth in it Fleettonnage.

11.3.3 Other delegates from Nigeria, Tunisia, Morocco and Cape Verde also shared their practices and steps being taken by their Maritime Administrations to grow tonnage in the respective registries.

11.3.4 The Executive Council commended the efforts made by the MARADS that shared their experiences and best practices. It was agreed that the processes be documented and shared among MARADS. The significance of embracing technology and digitalization were also emphasized.

11.3.5 The delegate from Arab Federation of Chamber of Shipping pointed out that beyond sharing information on best practices, Ship Registries in Africa should be called upon to emulate international best practices and embrace technology in the quest to grow its fleet tonnage.

11.4 Adoption of Standard Data Collection Form for Establishment of Database for Ship Registries in Africa

18

11.4.1. Delegates were invited to recall that South Africa had presented a template for data collection for Ship Registries in Africa to adopt to help in evaluating Africa’s Fleet tonnage growth.

11.4.2 The Secretariat was requested to upload the template on the website and also circulate to member countries for their guidance.

11.5 Resolutions

The EXCO after extensive deliberations resolved as follows: The Secretariat to upload the editable Self-Assessment Form on the

AAMA website to enable Maritime Administrations access and fill the forms which would be used for country’s annual performance review. The forms are to be filled by all MARADS and submitted to the Secretariat before 15th December, 2019

The Secretariat/SAMSA to upload editable form of the Near Coastal Trade Certification and Competency Code on the website.

Liberia, South Africa, Tunisia, Nigeria and Morocco are to forward updates on their Country’s incentives to grow Fleet tonnage to the Secretariat for circulation to all MARADS.

The Ship Registry Standardized Data Collection Form as adopted, to be circulated to all MARADS to help access tonnage growth among ship registries in Africa.

12.0 Actionable Areas for Implementation of African Charter on Maritime Security and Safety and Development in Africa (Lome Charter)

12.1 The Executive Council noted the information provided in documents marked as Exco 3/12 addressing specific actionable areas that Maritime Administrations need to adopt for implementation of African Charter on Maritime Security and Safety Development in Africa (Lome Charter).

12.2 The Executive Council further noted the specific Actionable Areas for consideration by Maritime Administrations to help drive implementation of Lome Charter.

19

12.3 The Delegate from Morocco expressed willingness to share the experience of the maritime administration in promoting safety and security at sea and the existing collaboration with Gabon. The delegate also commented on the training initiatives driven by Moroccan Higher Education Training Institute offering a number of scholarship schemes.

12.4 The delegate from Tunisia expressed concern over the level of domestication of the Lome Charter by countries. It was suggested that the African Union be contacted to ascertain steps taken sofar in implementing the Lome Charter.

12.5 The Delegate from AAMTST also suggested that the AU should be invited to EXCO meetings in future to throw more light on the existing frameworks in view of the critical role AAMA was expected to play in their implementation.

12.6 The delegate from MOWCA emphasized the need for AAMA to establish presence during the Summit of African Heads of State organized by AU to encourage discussions on issues of maritime safety and security.

12.7 The Chairman noted the contributions made by most delegates and commended the efforts being made by MARADS to address issues of maritime safety, security and environment. He however called for more action at both country and continental level.

12.8 Resolutions After extensive deliberations, it was resolved as follows:

That Maritime Administrations should continue to make efforts to enhance Safety and Security of the maritime domain,

The Executive Council to reach out to the African Union to ascertain the level of implementation of the Lome Charter.

13.0 Maritime Education and Certification

20

13.1. The Executive Council noted the information provided in documents marked as EXCO 3/13.1 and 13.2 on:

Adoption of modalities to train and encourage young professionals to take advantage of available job opportunities at the IMO to fill up existing vacancies.

Integrating women into mainstream maritime activities as a strategy for building wholesome capacity for improving protection of the marine environment.

13.2. All Delegates agreed on the importance of maritime education and training but called on training institutions to lay more emphasis on new and emerging technology. A number of the delegates further explained the efforts they were making in securing training for their administration.

13.3 The delegate from AASTMT informed others that the Academy would welcome partnership with AAMA member countries. He emphasized that training was capital intensive and as such countries should take advantage of the opportunities offered by donor countries and training institutions.

13.4 The delegate from WOMESA called on Maritime Administrations to encourage training and integrating of women in mainstream maritime activities.

13.5 ResolutionsHaving considered comments by delegates, it was resolved as follows:

Maritime Administrations to take advantage of available training opportunities offered by IMO and other donor bodies & institutions to support capacity building and development.

MARADS to take steps to ensure that women are integrated into mainstream activities, as a strategy for improving protection of the marine environment in line with the theme of 2019 World Maritime Day “Empowering Women in Maritime Community”.

21

14.0 Countries’ Updates on Registration, Domestication and Implementation of Relevant IMO Instruments

14.0. The delegation noted the information contained in document marked as EXCO 3/14 on the following items: Update on National Action to Ratify, Domesticate and Implement

relevant IMO instruments that would ensure protection of the oceans and seas to engender sustainable development.

Adoption of Port State Control procedures aimed at the reduction and eventual elimination of substandard shipping, prevention of marine pollution and improving living & working conditions of seafarers.

Adoption of framework for elimination of marine litter plastic debris from African Oceans and Seas.

14.1 The delegates were invited to recall the primary roles of maritime administrations in ensuring full implementation of over fifty (50) IMO instruments and ILO maritime instruments.

14.2 All the delegates commented on the level of compliance with domestication and implementation of the relevant IMO instruments and current actions being deployed.

14.3 The delegate from Uganda pointed out that Uganda as a Land Locked country, only acceded to a few relevant instruments and strives to Implement them.

14.4 The Executive Council noted the difficulties encountered in some countries while trying to domesticate the relevant conventions.

14.5 RESOLUTIONSThe delegates whilst noting the importance of a safe, secure and cleaner ocean resolved as follows: To continue with efforts to domesticate relevant conventions.

22

Adopt measures to eliminate substandard ships, prevent marine pollution and improve living & working conditions of seafarers.

Adopt frameworks for elimination of marine litter plastic debris from African Oceans and Seas.

15.0 Report on the 4th AAMA Conference

15.1 Delelgates noted the document marked as EXCO 3/15 which had the full report on the 4th AAMA Conference held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt submitted for information only.

15.2 Delegates agreed that the 4th AAMA conference was well attended and that the implementation of the Resolutions reached at the Conference was already reflected in the works of the Executive Council particularly the deliberations during the 3rd meeting of EXCO.

15.3 The Chairman invited Members to visit the website for the report and communique.

16.0 Preparation for 2019 IMO Council Elections (Building Support to Increase Africa’s Membership)

16.1 Delegates were invited to note the information contained in document marked as EXCO Agenda 3/16 on the need to collectively build support to increase Africa’s membership of the Council of the IMO.

16.2 Delegates noted that at present only Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, Morocco and Liberia were the 5 African countries occupying seats in the IMO Council under Category C reserved for Twenty (20) Member States with special interest in maritime transport and navigation not elected under Categories A and B.

23

16.3 Delegates were invited to make suggestions on how African Countries can occupy more seats in the IMO Council for the 2020-2021 biennial during the elections scheduled for November/December 2019.

16.4 Some Delegates sought to know if it was possible for strong African Countries with interest in international sea borne trade to contest under Category B.

16.5 The delegates from Liberia expressed the desire to get into category B but explained that the Country does not have a strong maritime/port sector and as such would remain in Category C. They pledged to support any other Afican Country’s candidacy under any of the categories.

16.6 Other delegates agreed that Africa should work out a strategy to adopt to enter into Category B and also win more seats under Category C.

16.8 After extensive deliberations, the following strategies were agreed on:

Countries willing to contest the election should issue early notifications to IMO and AAMA to ensure cooperation and enable Africa synergise and speak with one voice.

AAMA to lobby African Union for Countries to fully support the candiadature of those contesting.

AAMA Secretariat to work out strategies for AAMA member countries to meet on the sideline of IMO meetings in London. Early notifications to be issued to MARADs.

17.0 Report of AAMA’s participation at the Global Blue Economy Conference in Nairobi Kenya in November, 2018.

17.1 Delegates were invited to note the information contained in document marked as EXCO3/17 on AAMA’s participation at the Global Blue Economy Conference held in Nairobi Kenya inNovember, 2018.

24

17.2 The Chairman invited delegates to note that the Conference was very successful as attention was drawn to the potentials in Africa’s Seas and Oceans.

17.3 He further stated that the Conference was an opportunity for AAMA to join other Leader’s in making commitment as it pleadged to work as a Continental body to deepen the attainment of the Blue Economy goals in the African Continent by working with African Union and other institutions to effectively make the Blue Economy critical driver of economic prosperity for the continent.

17.4 Delegates expressed appreciation to the Chairman for putting AAMA at the forefront in promoting advancement of the maritime sector.

18.0 Announcments The Chairman gave updates on the following events:

MTCC – Africa Focal Countries Meeting Held on 14-15 March 2019 at Mombasa Kenya – Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre Kenya resolved to collaborate with AAMA in progressing its Agena.

International Nor- Shipping Week (The African Program) Oslo, Norway 4-7 June 2019 – Member Countries to note the event and attend if possible.

African Day of the Seas and Oceans - 25 July 2019 – The Notification by IMO Regional Coordinator West and Central African Sub Region (Anglophone) on the need for MARADs in Africa to celebrate the AfricanDay of the Seas and Ocean on 25 July 2019.

Global Maritime Security Conference, October 2019, Abuja, Nigeria – Delegates to note that Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Transportation and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency would hold the Global Maritime Security Conference in October 2019 to address the insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea area. Notifications to be sent to all AAMA Member countries.

19.0 ANY OTHER BUSINESSIn the absence of further deliberations, the Merchant Du Marine Directorate Morocco reminded delegates of the Dinner Reception

25

hosted by the Minister of Transport. She assured that transportation would be arranged to convey delegates to the venue of the receptionwhich she promised would be memorable.

20.0 CLOSING REMARKS The Chairman and all delegates unanimously expressed appreciation to

Morocco for facilitating a very successful meeting and for all the services rendered in ensuring a hitch free meeting.

The Leader of the Delegation from Ghana further thanked the AAMA Chairman his leadership style and successfully anchoring the 3rd AAMA Executive Council Meeting as well as driving the initiatives that has sustain AAMA and its activities.

The Chairman thanked everyone and it was agreed that the Dinner would be part of the closing ceremony. He commended delegates for a successful meeting and urged all to endeavour to honour the invitation to the dinner.

21.0 ADJOURNMENT The Chairman expressed the hope that Equatorial Guniea would confirm its

acceptance to host the 4th Session of AAMA Executive Council in the first Quarter of 2020. He assured delegates that the date and venue would be formally communicated.

The meeting successfully came to a close at 1.30pm.

26