Maritime security in Africa needs action not ambition

The African Union is being urged to move from ambition to action on maritime issues as the Decade of African Seas and Oceans draws to a close. Continental leaders must commit to a clear strategy that tackles both current and emerging maritime security threats.

In recent years, momentum on maritime issues in Africa has been inconsistent. The African Union’s Integrated Maritime Strategy, adopted in 2014, was praised by United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres as a model for regional cooperation. However, the strategy now requires review and adaptation to address new threats and improve coordination of continental maritime policymaking. The African Charter on Maritime Security and Safety and Development in Africa, also known as the Lomé Charter, was adopted in 2016 but has seen slow progress, with only three ratifications to date. Meanwhile, the revised African Maritime Transport Charter, adopted in 2010, finally entered into force in 2025 after reaching 15 ratifications.

To address these challenges, three key initiatives are proposed. First, an African maritime security expert group should be established to enhance knowledge and coordination among member states. This group would provide a platform for technical expertise, facilitate interdepartmental coordination, and support states in developing their maritime security capabilities. Second, the African Union Commission should conduct a maritime command‑post exercise to test command and control functions through simulations of piracy, illegal fishing, or other emergency scenarios. Such an exercise would identify areas for improvement and inform more effective maritime security strategies. Third, a forum for Chiefs of African Navies and/or Coastguards should be created as a permanent platform for senior officials to coordinate. This committee would enable information and resource sharing, build trust, and recommend priority reforms based on naval and coastguard perspectives.

These initiatives are crucial for addressing the maritime security challenges facing the continent. By establishing a maritime security expert group, conducting a command‑post exercise, and creating a forum for naval and coastguard leaders, the African Union can make a significant step toward improving maritime security and promoting regional cooperation. The success of these measures will depend on the commitment of member states and the Union’s ability to overcome chronic underfunding and institutional challenges.