Maritime Cooperation: A Glimpse of Hope in Cameroon’s Sea Vessel Registration Procedure

The audience, convened on March 14, 2024, shed light on crucial issues surrounding the registration of Cameroon-flagged vessels, particularly concerning the prevalence of ghost ships in international waters.

Objective of the Talks:
H.E. Barry LOWEN's visit primarily aimed to address the pressing issue of ghost ships flying the Cameroon flag, a matter of concern for maritime legality and safety. Given London's status as the headquarters of the International Maritime Organisation, it was imperative for the British High Commissioner to engage with the Ministry of Transport to tackle these challenges collaboratively.

Historical Ties and Developing Relations:
Minister Jean Ernest Massena NGALLE BIBEHE acknowledged the longstanding historical relationship between Cameroon and Britain, emphasizing the growing cooperation, especially in the transport sector and maritime sub-sector. Highlighting the legal framework governing ship registration in Cameroon, the Minister underscored the importance of compliance with established regulations outlined in the Cameroon Merchant Marine Code and related decrees.

Challenges and Solutions:
The Director of Maritime Affairs and Navigable Waterways identified Cameroon's inability to integrate into the Global Information System as a key challenge. This limitation hampers the tracking of vessels in designated red zones, necessitating urgent action to rectify the situation. To address this, the High Commissioner was urged to leverage his office to facilitate Cameroon's inclusion in the Global Information System and support the digitization of the registration process to enhance international connectivity.

Coordinated Efforts for Resolution:
Acknowledging the urgency of the matter, Minister NGALLE BIBEHE emphasized Cameroon's commitment to transparent registration procedures and sought the assistance of the British High Commissioner to expedite integration into the Global Information System. Moreover, regular sharing of information on vessels in red zones was recommended as an interim measure while Cameroon works on establishing its tracking system.

Conclusion:
The discussions between the British High Commissioner and the Minister of Transport mark a significant step forward in addressing maritime challenges facing Cameroon. Through collaboration and concerted efforts, both nations aim to enhance sea vessel registration procedures, improve maritime safety, and strengthen international cooperation in combating maritime threats. As Cameroon endeavors to navigate these complexities, the support and assistance of international partners, such as Britain, will be instrumental in achieving maritime excellence and security.