SOUTH AFRICA: The search for a seafarer who reportedly fell overboard a container vessel, MV Santa Cruz, along the South African coastline over the weekend has been called off and the vessel, which is now bound for the Port of Cape Town where officials from the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) will undertake further investigation.

SOUTH AFRICA: The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) has described the decisions by the South African Navy to detonate munitions close to the Boulders Beach penguin colony as short-sighted, irresponsible, and negligent.

SOUTH AFRICA: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has announced that it will acquire seven tugboats at a cost of R1 billion as part of a fleet renewal programme aimed at improving marine operations in the ports of Durban and East London.

MOZAMBIQUE: The Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) has signed an addendum to their concession that will extend its contract in the port from 2033 to 2058.

SOUTH AFRICA: After a protracted period without a permanent Chief Executive Officer in place, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) is advertising to fill the position with applications closing on 10 March.

SOUTH AFRICA: Having identified accredited training for the offshore sectors as a crucial component of developing the local and regional capacity to participate in the global energy sector, Cape Town-based Offshore Africa Training Centre (OATC) last week officially launched additional courses that will confirm the country’s position as a reputable training provider.

SOUTH AFRICA: Commercial small vessels under 25 gross tonnes will be subjected to new safety requirements under the proposed Merchant Shipping (National Small Vessel Safety) Regulations, 2024 when the 2007 regulations are repealed.

SIERRA LEONE: After the conclusion of the fifth licensing round, which featured 56 offshore blocks, in September last year, Sierra Leone is scheduling a further round this year to feature additional available acreage.