Maritime officials from dozens of African nations gathered under the Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) umbrella at a technical workshop focused on the IMO’s Net Zero Framework (NZF) and its potential effects on the continent’s economies and trade flows.
Kenya’s special envoy for climate change, Ali Mohamed, told participants that Africa must strategically position itself in global shipping negotiations if it is to ensure that decarbonization rules do not inadvertently drive up trade costs or diminish market access for African exports.
African delegates heard that over 90 % of Africa’s external trade travels by sea, meaning that IMO regulations on fuels, emissions standards, and compliance measures could directly influence the cost of imports and exports for countries reliant on maritime commerce.
The meeting reflected concerns raised during recent IMO discussions, including the postponement of formal adoption of the Net Zero Framework amid debate over measures such as levies on high-emitting ships and requirements for low-carbon fuels.
Officials at the workshop agreed that improved coordination among African maritime administrations, technical experts, and policy makers could help the continent present a coherent and informed position at upcoming IMO sessions, including negotiations on decarbonization timelines and economic safeguards.
Participants said future engagement will aim to translate technical discussions into effective advocacy at the IMO, where developing states continue to press for equity in the transition to greener shipping and assurances that new regulations will not overly burden African trade.
