Investing in regional maritime transport has emerged as a pivotal agenda for boosting inter-regional trade and alleviating the burden of the cost of living across West and Central Africa. During a recent visit to Liberia, Mr. Jean Marie Koffi, Secretary General of the West and Central African Port Managers Association, confirmed plans for engaging potential investors in the maritime transportation sector. This initiative seeks to enhance economic activities in the region by lowering transportation costs associated with the ongoing high commodity prices that stem partly from reliance on expensive imports. Koffi emphasized that improved maritime transport would play a significant role in the region’s economic revitalization and ultimately contribute to a reduction in the cost of living.
As part of his dialogue with local journalists, Mr. Koffi highlighted the importance of expanding services similar to the current vessel operations between Conakry, Guinea, and Freetown, Sierra Leone. These services have proven to be beneficial for local traders, and the potential for similar operations across the region could further enhance accessibility and trade. Despite the ambitions outlined, Koffi pointed out that the Regional Port Managers Association does not possess the financial resources to undertake these ventures independently, thereby underscoring the need for external investment to fulfill this vision of enhanced regional trade.
Mr. Koffi’s visit also served the dual purpose of assessing the operational capacity of Liberia’s ports and identifying areas for potential improvements. He recognized the detrimental impact of decades of civil strife on the port infrastructure, calling attention to the pressing need for significant investments in repairs and upgrades. The infrastructure shortcomings affect not just Liberia but the broader West and Central African region, suggesting that addressing the road connectivity to ports could play a critical role in boosting trade activities across the region. By recognizing these challenges and the interrelation between good infrastructure and trade, Koffi laid the groundwork for collaborative improvement efforts.
Focus on workforce development is also a priority for the Regional Port Managers Association, with training initiatives already underway. Koffi detailed that two junior-level managers from Liberia’s National Port Authority have recently completed training in Malaysia, with plans to extend similar educational opportunities to senior management in the future. This capacity-building initiative aims to equip port managers with the skills necessary to operate in alignment with the regulations set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The long-term goal is to foster a generation of well-trained port personnel who can effectively manage their operations and contribute to the region’s overall economic health.
During his visit, Koffi expressed gratitude to the management team of the National Port Authority for their warm welcome and support. Mr. James Bernard, the Deputy Managing Director for Administration at NPA, reciprocated the appreciation, acknowledging the significance of Koffi’s visit and the potential collaborative efforts that could arise from it. The gathering highlighted the importance of fostering relationships among port authorities and enhancing cooperation in addressing regional challenges that affect maritime trade and transportation.
Finally, the West and Central African Port Managers Association, established in 1972, remains committed to strengthening the capacities of port managers and enhancing maritime transportation cooperation across the region. Through investments in infrastructure and human capital, the association aims to transform the maritime landscape, ultimately boosting inter-regional trade and improving the cost of living for the citizens of West and Central Africa. As such initiatives take shape, the success of this strategic collaboration will hinge on the engagement of investors and the commitment of regional stakeholders to create a robust maritime transport sector that benefits all.
