Maritime and climate experts have called for a unified continental strategy in the midst of an evolving global maritime order. Speaking at a continental validation workshop on green ports and maritime greenhouse gas reduction held in Abuja, stakeholders pointed to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) proposed net-zero framework, which is meant to reduce emissions from international shipping. Despite initial approval in April, divisions among IMO member states have stalled the framework’s adoption. This delay exposed weaknesses in Africa’s negotiating position and voting power within the IMO. Speaking to Business Day Nigeria, Dola Oluteye, Founder and Co-Chair of the Professional African Technical Network Advisory Initiative, called for unity as a negotiating tool. “Speaking with one voice is the only way we can make a difference,” said Oluteye, urging governments to ratify the MARPOL Annex VI treaty, making them eligible to vote on key emissions policies.
