IMO Supports Maritime Security Africa
Efforts to prevent piracy, armed robbery against ships and illicit maritime activity in west and central Africa are being boosted by an extended International Maritime Organization (IMO) mission to Yaoundé, Cameroon (18 January – 2 February).
An IMO consultant is working with the Interregional Coordination Center (ICC) to support the Center’s work to carry out a regional maritime safety and security strategy under the Yaoundé Code of Conduct.
The Code of Conduct was signed by governments in the region in 2013 to enhance cooperation on maritime safety and security. The consultant is identifying the current needs, status and requirements under the Code and is supporting the ICC’s work to create a regional mechanism for collaboration in the center – as well as the urgent need to support the regional organizations and States involved.
Some of the tasks include creating a list of focal points under the Code of Conduct, developing the center’s work program, and creating an inventory of international laws and conventions on maritime crimes. The work will continue in March, with a further two weeks of assessments and support.