MOZAMBIQUE: The launch of the National Capacity Development Programme for Marine Protected Area (MPA) Professionals this week in Mozambique represents a milestone in marine conservation for the country.

TANZANIA: Hosted by the Tanzania Shipping Agency Corporation (TASAC), port stakeholders met in Dar es Salaam this week to discuss the Tanzania Ports Authority’s (TPA) application for a review of port charges.

SOUTH AFRICA: A new study funded through a grant by the Oiled Wildlife Care Network (OWCN) concludes that, until high levels of environmental rules, scrutiny and compliance is applied, offshore ship-to-ship bunker operations should not be permitted in areas such as Algoa Bay.

South African marine scientist Prof Lynne Shannon became the first South African to receive the Prince Albert I Grand Medal for Ocean Science at a ceremony in Paris this week.

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) have announced a scholarship programme targeting qualified African professionals seeking to advance their expertise in marine science, aquaculture, and sustainable fisheries management.

Kenya’s Nancy Karigithu was recognised for her distinguished career representing her tireless commitment to seafarers as well as her representation of her country at the International Maritime Organisation and her role in developing cooperation programmes across Africa at an awards ceremony in London this week.

SOUTH AFRICA: Recreational fishers need to plan smartly this summer if they want to stay on the right side of the law as the announced dates for catching West Coast Rock Lobster restrict opportunities to only 12 days.

SOUTH AFRICA: The Competition Commission is referring a complaint against eight major shipping lines operating between South Africa and Asia for prosecution.