Highlights from Africa Maritime Investment Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 18, 2024

The first Africa Maritime Investment Indaba was hosted by eThekwini Municipality and organised by the Africa Oceans Council in Durban recently over three days.

Mr Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa spoke at the event. | Photo: Fred Felton

The event from 6 – 8 November allowed delegates to share knowledge and showed the delegates Africa’s growing capabilities in maritime manufacturing, conserving the environment and education within the maritime sector.

The Indaba was held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre and various investment projects were discussed that could benefit from an estimated $3 trillion dollar economy with the potential for 800 000 jobs to be created at over 100 ports across Africa.

This event solidified the commitment of Durban to see itself as a smart port city region and a key player in Africa’s Blue Economy. National and global delegates gathered together to discuss investment in Africa’s booming maritime sector.

‘’We see this sector as pivotal for addressing the skills shortage, empowering coastal communities, and positioning Durban as a premier maritime hub,’’ said eThekwini Deputy Mayor Councillor Zandile Myeni.

Some of the key themes discussed at the Indaba included maritime trade finance, the development of energy offshore, aquaculture and conserving the ocean.

One of the eThekwini Municipality stands at Africa Maritime Investment Indaba. | Photo: Fred Felton

The discussions were in line with the eThekwini Inner City Regeneration Plan, which reinforced the vision of the Municipality to use the Blue Economy for creating jobs, building infrastructure and development.

A number of high-profile speakers guided the conversations during the themed conference sessions of the event.

The indaba also highlighted some key points to do with maritime trade in Africa. Around R780 billion bulk minerals are exported from South Africa.

‘’What are we doing to transport passengers? How long does it take us to get passengers to the battlefield sites? We’re investing in cruise terminals, we’re investing in infrastructure. Tourist attractions need to be near the ship terminals. We need to do more destination marketing. Africa is a place to come to,’’ noted Mr Ross Volk, Managing Director, MSC Cruises South Africa.

The delegates were also informed of how marine trade is doing in SADC countries.

‘’Botswana, Namibia and South Africa are high-income countries. Trade makes countries richer. Efficient ports with good connectivity are essential,’’ said Mr Jannie Roux of Bidvest South Africa.

There are also huge opportunities in the tourism sector which includes Eco-Tourism, Diving-Tourism and Archaeological-Tourism.

At the end of the Indaba it was very clear that Durban remains confident in its commitment to creating a strong and sustainable Blue Economy.