IMO commits to enhancing maritime security in the Red Sea and beyond during the EU Regional Maritime Security Week in Nairobi.
The UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime security across the Red Sea, East Africa, Southern Africa, and the Western Indian Ocean during the EU Regional Maritime Security Week in Nairobi, as reported by Saint Petersburg's PortNews.
The meeting, held earlier this month and hosted by Kenya with EU support, gathered 112 delegates from 16 countries and 12 organizations. It was organized in collaboration with the Indian Ocean Commission, UNODC, INTERPOL, and IMO.
The agenda included sessions of Steering Committees for three EU-funded initiatives: the Red Sea Project, Safe Seas Africa, and the Port Security and Safety of Navigation programmes. The event concluded with discussions on the Regional Maritime Security Architecture committee.
Delegates reviewed the Crisis Response Project for the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean, which resulted in the seizure of 2.4 tonnes of drugs, the arrest of 36 traffickers and criminals, and the rescue of fishermen and sailors.
IMO presented regional actions under the Djibouti Code of Conduct and Jeddah Amendment, as well as initiatives aimed at enhancing ISPS Code implementation, including the Red Sea Project, the Safe Seas for Africa Programme, and the Port Security and Safety of Navigation Project.
These initiatives aim to strengthen interoperability among maritime centers and support states in building sustainable maritime governance. A key topic was the emerging Regional Maritime Security Plan, designed to improve information-sharing and the resilience of shipping routes.
While the framework remains under consultation, participants noted that progress made in Nairobi laid the groundwork for future implementation. Delegates reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation and the intent to harmonize approaches across Africa's coastal regions.
IMO is a specialized UN agency responsible for global shipping safety, environmental performance, and maritime security. It develops regulatory frameworks and supports member states through technical cooperation.
