The 8th Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) Conference has concluded in Monrovia with widespread commendation for Liberia’s organization, hospitality, and leadership, as African maritime nations renewed their commitment to advancing the continent’s blue economy.
Held from September 30 to October 3, 2025 at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex, the conference brought together delegates from more than 40 African countries and beyond, alongside representatives from the International Maritime Organization and other regional organizations. The conference was held under the theme, “Safeguarding Our Ocean, Promoting Decarbonization in Shipping, and Exploring Africa’s Blue Economy Potential”.
In his closing remarks, AAMA Chairman and Director General of the Kenya Maritime Authority, CPA Justus Omae Nyarandi, described the 2025 edition as the “best ever” in the association’s history. He praised Liberia’s coordination, organization, and warm reception, which he said set a new benchmark for future AAMA conferences.
In his closing address, the Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., expressed appreciation for the opportunity to host the continental gathering. He said Liberia was “deeply honored” to welcome fellow maritime administrations and proud of the progress made in strengthening Africa’s collective maritime voice.
“Together, we have reaffirmed our shared vision for sustainable ocean governance and a resilient blue economy that benefits all Africans,” Lighe said in his closing statement.
The conference concluded with the adoption of a seven-point resolutions outlining key priorities for the continent’s maritime agenda. These include financing the blue economy, enhancing maritime transport and trade facilitation, promoting gender and diversity, improving domestic ferry safety, advancing capacity building, strengthening environmental protection, and promoting green shipping within a just transition framework.
Liberia also used the occasion to showcase its maritime and tourism potential, as well as its rich cultural heritage. Delegates experienced the country’s hospitality through exhibitions and cultural displays that highlighted Liberia’s position as a major maritime nation and its growing role in global shipping.
The AAMA Conference serves as the highest decision-making forum for African maritime administrations under the Revised African Maritime Transport Charter. The 2025 edition in Monrovia, participants said, reaffirmed Africa’s unity in addressing maritime challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing global shipping landscape.
