Interferry and the IMO conclude successful Africa Ferry Safety Seminar in Dar es Salaam
In the mutual interest of improving safety, a stronger cooperation between the African ferry community and Interferry was established in this week´s Africa Ferry Safety Seminar in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The seminar was leading up to Interferry’s 48th annual conference taking place in Marrakech, October 26-30.
A collaborative effort to elevate ferry safety standards in Africa concluded yesterday, after a two-day intensive seminar co-hosted by Interferry and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Over 100 participants from across the African ferry industry and Interferry´s global network convened in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, united in the wake of recent regional tragedies.
The association fielded a delegation of 15 seasoned professionals from its worldwide operator and supplier members, whose purpose was to listen, exchange experience and share best practices on both operational and regulatory levels. Open discussions focused on critical areas impacting safety, including ticketing and passenger counting, cargo loading and stowage, vessel design and classification, insurance and financing, management culture and technical management, incident reporting, and the crucial role of political will in driving safety improvements.
Mike Corrigan, CEO of Interferry, emphasized the significance of the seminar: “This event represents a vital step forward in prioritizing ferry safety across Africa. The collaborative spirit and commitment from all attendees were truly inspiring. Together, we can address existing challenges and build a safer future for African ferry operations.”
The seminar solidified a strong foundation for ongoing cooperation between Interferry, the IMO, and the African ferry community. Building on the momentum, a dedicated follow-up session is planned for the Interferry2024 conference in Marrakech, Morocco, on October 30.
Interferry is a highly respected global association with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization and similar influence at the European Union as well as many other maritime governance authorities. With membership exceeding 270 companies and over 1,700 individuals in more than 40 countries, its primary purposes are to represent the industry on regulatory and policy matters, to speak on behalf of the worldwide ferry sector, and to facilitate networking and communications among its members.
