WATERBORNE VISION 2030 & 2050
Africa’s waterborne transport sector has a crucial role to play in the strategic goals of the African Union as captured in NEPAD https://au.int/sites/default/
The 2016 White Paper underlines the poor state of waterborne transport in Africa:
“Inland Waterways
Navigable inland waterways transport that has been neglected and has not been given due consideration thus has deteriorated over the years should be re activated and developed;
The potential for inland water transport to contribute as a cheap and environmentally friendly/ sustainable (and multi-modal) mode of transport in the African transport system should be recognised;
Member states and REC’s should bring forward plans to foster inland water transport through the provision of appropriate infrastructure, laws and regulations (to address common navigation issues and logistics to support efficient cross-border trade (thereby promoting investment co-ordinated in terms of geographical needs, port locations, modern integrated port and handling facilities, etc.);
Relevant member states should establish or extend maritime administrations with a view to fostering and regulating inland water transport; and
Relevant member states should adopt boat building standards for inland water transport in order to improve safety on the water, using best practices worldwide.”
This vision emphasises the need for states to recognise the critical role of Waterborne transport across Africa.
The role of Waterborne Transport Africa Forum is to encourage discourse among stakeholders to achieve this vision.