- EU-Backed Maritime Projects Show Strong Results.
- Drug Seizures and Arrests Highlight Operational Impact.
- IMO Showcases Capacity Building Initiatives.
The International Maritime Organisation has once again pledged to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea, East Africa, Southern Africa, and the Western Indian Ocean. This commitment was reaffirmed during the EU Regional Maritime Security Week, which took place in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 2 to 5, 2025, reports IMO.
High-Level Regional Participation
The event, hosted by the Government of Kenya with backing from the European Union, was organised in collaboration with the Indian Ocean Commission, UNODC, INTERPOL, and IMO. It brought together 112 delegates from 16 different countries, along with representatives from 12 regional and international organisations.
EU-Funded Programmes Reviewed
Throughout the week, Steering Committees for various EU-funded initiatives, led by IMO and its partners, convened. These included the Red Sea Project, Safe Seas Africa, and the Port Security and Safety of Navigation programme. The week wrapped up with discussions from the Steering Committee of the Regional Maritime Security Architecture, also addressing the Crisis Response Project for the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean.
Tangible Security Outcomes
The discussions showcased some real achievements from these initiatives, such as the seizure of 2.4 tonnes of drugs and illegal cargo, the arrest of 36 human traffickers and criminals, and several successful rescues of fishermen and sailors in distress.
IMO Regional Initiatives Showcased
The IMO highlighted essential actions aimed at bolstering regional maritime security. This includes the Djibouti Code of Conduct and its Jeddah Amendment, the Red Sea Project, and the Safe Seas for Africa Programme, which supports National Maritime Information Sharing Centres. Additionally, the Port Security and Safety of Navigation Project focuses on implementing the ISPS Code and ensuring safe navigation.
Advancing the Regional Maritime Security Plan
A significant emphasis was placed on the new Regional Maritime Security Plan, which aims to enhance information-sharing, coordinated responses, and the resilience of shipping routes. The IMO provided technical expertise through capability assessments, the development of standard operating procedures, and insights from EU- and IMO-supported activities, with ongoing consultations among States.
Shared Vision for Safer Seas
The week concluded with renewed commitments to deeper cooperation, harmonised approaches and stronger inter-regional partnerships, reinforcing a unified vision for maritime security across Africa’s key coastal regions.
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Source: IMO
