West Africa’s maritime industry continues to evolve with major investments, security developments, and sustainability efforts shaping the region’s economic landscape. This week, we explore major developments in oil and gas, security, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and international trade. Read on for an in-depth look at how these events are shaping the future of maritime activities in the region.
1. Gas Leak at BP’s Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) Project
A gas leak was detected at BP’s Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas project, located offshore between Senegal and Mauritania. The leak occurred during a planned commissioning test at the GTA A02 well, revealing low-rate subsea gas bubbles. BP has assured that the environmental impact is expected to be minimal, and production activities remain unaffected. Mauritania’s environment ministry, in collaboration with Senegalese authorities, is investigating the incident to prevent any further environmental risks. Efforts are underway to monitor the situation closely and prevent any possible impact on marine ecosystems in the region.
This development highlights the delicate balance between industrial expansion and environmental stewardship in West Africa’s growing energy sector.
2. Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea: Rising Threats
The Gulf of Guinea remains a high-risk zone for piracy, with rising incidents of petro-piracy and crew kidnappings. Pirates in the region have gained access to advanced technology, often targeting foreign vessels for ransom.
Recent reports indicate that piracy-related crimes in the region have become more sophisticated, with perpetrators leveraging small attack boats and mother ships to target vessels across wider operational areas. The financial impact of these security threats continues to pose significant risks to global trade, forcing international organizations and local governments to implement new security protocols.
Regional and international maritime security collaborations are underway to enhance patrols and fortify security measures across affected areas. Enhanced naval presence, cooperation between regional governments, and intelligence-sharing initiatives are expected to bolster security in the coming months.
3. Shell’s $5 Billion Investment in Nigeria’s Offshore Sector
Shell has pledged a $5 billion investment in the Bonga North deepwater project, located approximately 130 kilometers off the Nigerian coast. This investment aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy to attract foreign capital and develop its offshore energy resources.
The Bonga North project marks a significant step in expanding Nigeria’s position in the global oil and gas industry. Additionally, Shell’s decision to focus on deepwater exploration comes amid its divestment from onshore oil fields in the Niger Delta, a move aimed at reducing exposure to security risks and environmental challenges linked to land-based operations.
Industry analysts believe that this investment could contribute to stabilizing Nigeria’s crude oil output, which has faced disruptions in recent years due to operational and regulatory challenges.
4. Port and Infrastructure Developments in Senegal
- DP World has begun construction of the $1.2 billion Port of Ndayane, a major logistics hub expected to strengthen Senegal’s maritime trade sector. The port is designed to accommodate the world’s largest container ships, positioning Senegal as a regional trade leader.
- Belgium-based Jan De Nul has initiated dredging operations for a new deep-water port, which will include a five-kilometer access channel and an 89-hectare platform for maritime services. Once completed, the port will significantly boost Senegal’s cargo-handling capacity.
- Additional investments in modernizing Senegal’s transport and logistics networks are also underway, with a focus on improving connectivity between ports and inland commercial hubs.
These developments signal a strong push toward improving regional trade efficiency and attracting foreign investment to Senegal’s expanding maritime economy.
5. Sierra Leone Expands Tourism and Maritime Activities
- Air Sierra Leone is launching direct flights from London Gatwick starting December 2, 2024, marking the first UK-Sierra Leone direct flights since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The government is investing in road and coastal infrastructure to boost tourism and maritime commerce.
- Actor Idris Elba is backing eco-tourism development on Sherbro Island, aiming to turn it into a leading sustainable tourism hub.
- Additional projects include port expansion efforts aimed at accommodating more cruise ships and increasing maritime traffic to promote economic growth through tourism.
6. Environmental Initiatives in Ghana: Tackling Textile Waste
Ghana is addressing textile pollution from secondhand clothing markets by promoting upcycling and sustainable fashion. Events like the Obroni Wawu October festival are showcasing how discarded materials can be repurposed into high-quality fashion. These initiatives aim to combat fast fashion waste and reduce environmental damage.
Despite the progress made, experts caution that textile waste remains a growing issue, requiring broader policy intervention and industry-wide cooperation to promote circular fashion initiatives.
7. Senegal’s Naval Operations to Curb Illegal Migration
The Senegalese navy has intensified coastal patrols to intercept and rescue migrants attempting to reach Spain’s Canary Islands. So far in 2024, over 4,780 individuals have been rescued, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced migration management and safer maritime routes.
8. Maritime Training Partnerships in West Africa
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Regional Maritime University (RMU), and Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) are strengthening collaborations to enhance maritime education. This initiative is expected to raise training standards and equip professionals with modern skills.
The program also aims to encourage youth participation in maritime careers, addressing a skills gap in the industry while boosting job creation opportunities.
9. Liberia Becomes World’s Largest Ship Registry
Liberia has surpassed Panama as the world’s largest ship register by deadweight tonnage. As of 2023, Liberia holds 17.3% of the global fleet share, overtaking Panama’s 16.1%. This milestone strengthens Africa’s presence in global maritime logistics and reinforces Liberia’s reputation as a leading maritime nation.
10. North Africa Port Expansion: AD Ports’ New Terminal in Egypt
AD Ports Group is preparing to receive new Panamax-class cranes for a multipurpose cargo terminal in Safaga, Egypt. This project will increase cargo handling capacity and enhance trade efficiency in North Africa. The move is part of a broader plan to modernize port infrastructure and improve cargo flow between Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Stay Updated on West Africa’s Maritime Industry
The West African maritime sector is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with major developments shaping trade, security, and sustainability efforts. Stay informed with our weekly updates and gain insights into the latest industry trends. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive reports, in-depth analysis, and now, audio updates in MP4 format for easy listening on the go!
📩 Subscribe Now!
Sources:
- Reuters: BP and Mauritania say leak detected at gas project off West Africa
- Financial Times: Shell ties Nigeria offshore investments to approval for oil asset sale
- Riviera Maritime Media: DP World begins construction of new African container port
- MarineLink: Jan De Nul Starts Dredging Ops for New Deep-Water Port in Senegal
- The Sun: UK-Sierra Leone flights return after pandemic
- Associated Press: As fast fashion’s waste pollutes Africa, designers in Ghana innovate solutions
- AP News: Senegal’s navy patrols migration routes to Europe
- UNCTAD: Liberia surpasses Panama in global ship registration rankings
- Maritime Africa: NIMASA and RMU collaborate for maritime training
- Maritime Africa: AD Ports prepares for new terminal in Egypt
![West African Maritime Industry Update – [5-Mar-2025]](https://www.westafricadiving.info/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/west-africa-maritime-1024x576.jpg)
