Strengthening Flag State implementation in Africa

Regional workshop reinforces understanding of IMO Conventions

KENYA: A regional workshop led by the International Maritime Organisation in Mombasa has helped maritime professionals in Eastern and Southern Africa enhance their understanding of flag States’ obligations under IMO conventions, and how to authorise Recognized Organisations to ensure these obligations are met.

The Regional Workshop on Flag State Implementation (FSI) and the Authorisation of Recognized Organisations held in the first week of April brought together 39 participants from 17 countries to promote effective implementation of IMO regulations, and support safe, secure and more environmentally sustainable shipping.

Hosted by the Kenya Maritime Authority and organised in collaboration with IMO under its Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP), the training focused on flag States’ responsibilities, survey and certification under IMO instruments and how to effectively authorize and oversee Recognised Organisations (ROs).

Flag States play a vital role in ensuring that ships under their jurisdiction comply with international maritime safety, security and environmental standards. ROs working on behalf of flag States are assessed, recognized and authorized under the IMO's Code for Recognized Organisations (RO Code), which sets minimum criteria for ROs and provides guidelines for oversight by flag States.

Key themes covered during the training included flag State jurisdiction and enforcement, survey and certification, communication of information, and domestic ferry safety. Participants explored strategies for monitoring compliance, managing risks, while enhancing their national maritime frameworks in line with international best practices.

Half of the participants were women, reflecting IMO’s commitment to promoting an inclusive maritime governance. Participants are expected to apply the knowledge gained during the workshop to strengthen flag State performance, particularly in the areas of compliance, survey and certification and applying the RO Code.

Participating States included: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.