Highlighting the central role of oceans in global commerce, the Vice President noted that more than 80 percent of world trade is transported by sea, making maritime development critical to economic transformation in West and Central Africa.
He described the Golden Jubilee as both a celebration of five decades of regional cooperation and a call to greater action, particularly as The Gambia assumes the Chairmanship of MOWCA for the first time.
The Vice President outlined national efforts to modernise the maritime sector, including expansion of the Port of Banjul, development of a deep-sea port at Sanyang, and strengthening oversight through the Gambia Maritime Administration.
He called on Member States to deepen collaboration, strengthen maritime governance, invest in infrastructure and technology, and protect marine resources to ensure sustainable growth and regional prosperity.
Minister for Fisheries and Maritime Economy of Senegal, Fatou Diouf, in her statement mentioned that over the past 50 years, MOWCA has played a central role in shaping West and Central Africa’s maritime landscape.
“The organization has helped harmonize regional maritime policies, modernize port infrastructure, and strengthen navigation safety, while protecting fisheries and coastal resources,” she said. “Leaders at the anniversary celebrations emphasized that the blue economy spanning maritime transport, shipbuilding, coastal logistics, tourism, and marine energy is now a critical driver of economic growth, job creation, and regional integration.”
Diouf further highlighted the need for enhanced cooperation among member states to address maritime security, environmental sustainability, and trade competitiveness, ensuring that the region’s oceans become engines of opportunity rather than vulnerability.
Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure of The Gambia, Ebrima Sillah, also said that MOWCA has spent 50 years strengthening maritime cooperation in west and central Africa, modernising ports, improving safety, and promoting sustainable development. As The Gambia assumes the chairmanship, he noted that new initiatives, including the Regional Maritime Fund, a Maritime Academy, and a Development Bank aimed at boosting trade, security, and the blue will be duly adopted.
