The Regional Ferry Conference in Lagos, held late June, offered a stark contrast in the maritime sector’s trajectory across Africa. Lagos State’s ferry system, a model of regulation and sustainability, stands in sharp relief to the grim statistics plaguing other regions. With 729 ferries on over 30 routes, Lagos has achieved an 83% life jacket compliance rate and rigorous vessel inspections, thanks to the Lagos State Waterway Authority (LASWA) under Oluwadamilola “Dami” Emmanuel. The state’s commitment to safety is evident in its command center monitoring and jet ski patrols enforcing regulations. Yet, beyond Lagos, the picture is bleak. Dr. Paul Adalikwu of the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) highlighted the devastating toll of ferry-related incidents, with over 8,000 lives lost in the past decade, primarily involving unregulated vessels.
The conference, hosted by LASWA, brought together over 220 participants from Nigeria and other African nations. Speakers from Interferry’s FerrySafe Committee, led by Oliver Weiss, shared best practices and findings. Notably, Interferry Board members Tim Mooney of Fire Island Ferries and Mary Ann Pastrana of Archipelago Ferries offered insights from their operational experiences, emphasizing shared challenges and solutions. The conference also included a visit to Caverton Shipyard, underscoring the practical aspects of maritime operations.
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Interferry CEO Mike Corrigan and MOWCA’s Dr. Adalikwu marked a significant step forward. The MOU outlines joint actions, including information campaigns, training seminars, and strengthening legal frameworks. It also plans studies on domestic ferry markets and fosters cooperation between Interferry members and local operators. This collaboration is poised to drive meaningful change, given the capabilities of both organizations.
The Worldwide Ferry Safety Association, in partnership with Nigerian naval architect David Okafor, will sponsor an international maritime student design competition focused on Nigerian inland waterways. This initiative aims to enhance maritime weather monitoring and communication, further bolstering safety efforts.
The Lagos model demonstrates that a well-regulated, sustainable ferry system is achievable. However, the stark contrast with other regions underscores the urgent need for collaboration and innovation. The MOU between Interferry and MOWCA, along with the upcoming design competition, signals a promising shift. As the maritime sector in Africa grapples with safety challenges, these developments could shape a future where regulated, sustainable ferry systems become the norm rather than the exception. The question remains: will other regions follow Lagos’ lead, or will they continue to lag behind, risking more lives and resources? The answer lies in the collective will to prioritize safety and sustainability, a challenge that the maritime community must rise to meet.