Reported by Desmond Gbeleh Wion
Monrovia, Liberia: Liberia has been picked to host the 8th African Maritime Member States Summit. The event will bring together leaders from Africa’s maritime sector, along with international guests, to Monrovia later this year.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s press briefing on Thursday, Robert Wilmot Kpadeh, Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), said the summit will run from September 30 to October 4.
Mr. Kpadeh said Liberia’s strong record in global shipping helped the country win the hosting rights. Liberia has one of the world’s biggest ship registries, giving it an important place in the shipping world.
The summit will focus on major issues like ocean safety, environmental protection, and how African countries can better follow global shipping rules. Forty-eight African countries, along with partners from Europe, are expected to attend.
Mr. Kpadeh called on Liberians to be proud of this achievement, saying it shows the world’s trust in Liberia’s leadership in the maritime sector.
Mr. Kpadeh said hosting the summit proves Liberia’s active role in pushing the goals of the IMO. He also mentioned Liberia’s regular payment of $700,000 in membership dues and active participation in IMO meetings and committees.
“This event is not just about showing off,” he said. “It’s about pushing Liberia’s work for better and safer shipping practices worldwide.”
With new challenges like climate change, new technology, and rising tensions on the seas, the summit will focus on fresh ideas for the future. Topics will include cutting carbon emissions from ships, using digital tools to improve services, and protecting the ocean economy.
Experts from Africa and beyond will lead talks and workshops during the summit.
Besides global attention, the summit will also help Liberia’s economy. Hotels, transport companies, and local businesses are expected to benefit from the many visitors. Liberia’s ports, shipping services, and investment potential will also be in the spotlight.
The event is seen as a major boost for Liberia’s place in African and global maritime affairs.
Meanwhile, Liberia is also campaigning for a non-permanent seat on the IMO Council.
The Council makes key decisions about international shipping rules. Mr. Kpadeh said Liberia’s long history in shipping, with one of the largest ship registries in the world, makes it a strong candidate.
He said Liberia’s bid is about giving a louder voice to developing countries that depend heavily on the sea for trade and growth.
“Winning a seat would show that Liberia is serious about making global shipping fair, safe, and future-ready,” Kpadeh said.
Liberia’s government is already talking with other countries to gather support. Officials are using every chance, including international meetings, to promote Liberia’s case.
Mr. Kpadeh said Liberia’s steady record on safety, strong maritime laws, and recent investments in port upgrades and shipping services strengthen the country’s case.
Liberia wants to make the maritime sector a key driver of its economy. Big improvements in port facilities, shipping technology, and maritime training are part of the plan.
Mr. Kpadeh said it’s important for Liberia to be at the decision-making table when big changes are happening in world shipping.
“As a top flag state, Liberia must help shape a safer, fairer shipping industry,” he said.
Liberia is asking its allies, African Union members, ECOWAS states, and partners across the world to back its bid.
The IMO Council elections will be held later this year during the 33rd Assembly meeting in London.
If successful, Liberia’s win would be a major step for African leadership in global maritime affairs.
“This is bigger than Liberia,” Mr. Kpadeh said. “It’s about making sure global shipping rules reflect all voices. Liberia is ready to help lead that change.”
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