The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) is participating in a high-level deliberation at the 19th Session of the General Assembly and the 50th Anniversary of the Maritime Organization for West and Central Africa (MOWCA), reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to strengthening regional maritime cooperation and shaping the future of Africa’s maritime sector.
The landmark gathering brought together maritime leaders, policymakers, and technical experts from across West and Central Africa to chart a strategic course for the region’s maritime development.
Discussions centered on enhancing collaboration among member states and advancing innovative solutions to drive sustainable growth within the sector.
A key focus of the Assembly is the proposed establishment of a Regional Maritime Development Bank, designed to provide sustainable financing mechanisms for maritime infrastructure, port modernization, shipping development, and blue economy projects. Delegates are also giving significant consideration to the launch of a MOWCA Regional Maritime Fund, intended to mobilize resources for critical regional initiatives.
In a bold institutional reform move, member states are deliberating on transforming MOWCA into an African Maritime Organization, a strategic evolution aimed at elevating the body’s mandate, strengthening its operational capacity, and expanding its continental influence in maritime governance.
Under the theme, “Fostering Effective Civil Services, High Safety Standards, and Low Pollution”, the Assembly is addressing pressing challenges affecting the region’s maritime domain, including inland waterway safety, environmental sustainability, maritime security, and trade facilitation. Delegates are also reviewing capacity-building programs, environmental protection initiatives, and strategies to enhance regional trade integration.
Liberia is represented on the Committee of Experts by LiMA’s Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Desiré Satia, a designated member of MOWCA’s Committee of Experts. His participation in the technical and financial discussions was undertaken with the full support of the Commissioner/CEO of LiMA, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., whose leadership continues to position Liberia as a key stakeholder in regional maritime development.
The Assembly further saw The Gambia assuming the Chairmanship of the Committee of Experts for the 2026–2028 term, signaling renewed momentum for coordinated regional action, while Senegal was elected First Vice President; Equatorial Guinea was elected Second Vice President and Liberia playing secretarial role.
As MOWCA commemorates five decades of advancing maritime cooperation, Liberia’s active engagement underscores its resolve to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that enhance maritime safety, promote investment, strengthen trade facilitation, and accelerate the growth of Africa’s blue economy.
