The maritime and logistics sector in Africa faces significant hurdles in complying with the International Maritime Organisation’s greenhouse gas emission reduction initiatives, primarily due to infrastructural deficiencies. While the importance of green shipping, encompassing practices and technologies aimed at minimizing environmental impact, is acknowledged, experts argue that it hasn’t gained a strong foothold in Africa due to more pressing challenges. These challenges range from inadequate logistics infrastructure and economic constraints to broader policy issues, diverting attention and resources away from environmental concerns.
Dr. Obiora Madu, Director-General of the African Centre for Supply Chain, highlights the stark contrast between the focus on sustainability in developed nations and the African reality. While acknowledging government efforts towards sustainability, he emphasizes that the primary focus remains on addressing more immediate concerns like inadequate road networks, lack of rail infrastructure, and economic instability. These pressing issues overshadow the urgency of environmental action, despite the government’s commitment to the cause. The reliance on road transport for cargo, ideally suited for rail, further exacerbates the emissions problem. This infrastructural deficit hinders efficient and sustainable transportation practices, reinforcing the cycle of environmental damage.
Adding to the infrastructural challenges are policy complexities surrounding the blue economy. Dr. Madu points to the vast scope of the blue economy, impacting multiple ministries and creating a fragmented approach. This lack of a unified and focused policy framework further complicates the implementation of green shipping initiatives. The intersection of various ministerial responsibilities without clear delineation of authority dilutes the focus on environmental sustainability within the maritime sector.
Corruption emerges as another critical obstacle in Nigeria’s pursuit of emission reduction. Captain Williams Ogunshakin, President of the Alumni of the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, identifies corruption as a major impediment to progress. Gas flaring, a significant contributor to ozone layer depletion, continues despite efforts to curb the practice. Both onshore and offshore flaring persists, highlighting the gap between policy and enforcement. This persistent practice underscores the corrosive effect of corruption, undermining environmental regulations and jeopardizing long-term sustainability.
While regulatory bodies like the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority are attempting to enforce compliance with low-sulfur fuel regulations for vessels entering Nigerian ports, the effectiveness of these efforts remains uncertain. The inspection process for verifying fuel compliance, while in place, appears to lack the robustness needed to ensure widespread adherence. The potential for circumvention of these regulations due to corruption raises concerns about the true impact of these inspections. This lack of stringent enforcement undermines the integrity of the regulatory framework and hampers progress towards greener shipping practices.
The declaration of “greenness” by ships entering Nigerian ports, a requirement mandated by the Nigerian Ports Authority and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, also faces implementation challenges. While this declaration is supposed to be a standard procedure, there are doubts about the thoroughness and reliability of the process. The lack of confirmed compliance monitoring raises concerns about the veracity of these declarations and the effectiveness of the oversight mechanisms. This ambiguity surrounding compliance reporting further casts doubt on the progress made towards sustainable maritime practices within the country. Ultimately, addressing these intertwined challenges of infrastructure deficits, policy complexities, corruption, and enforcement gaps is crucial for Africa, and particularly Nigeria, to effectively embrace green shipping and achieve the IMO’s emission reduction targets. A multi-pronged approach encompassing infrastructure development, policy reform, robust enforcement mechanisms, and anti-corruption efforts is essential to navigate this complex landscape and secure a sustainable future for the maritime sector.
