Ivory Coast Holds Ammonium Nitrate Cargo Offshore as Concerns Continues
The Port of Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire has decided to hold the cargo ship Zimrida offshore due to safety concerns regarding its cargo of ammonium nitrate. This decision follows a series of events that began in September with the bulker Ruby. The situation has raised alarms in the local community and media, prompting a thorough review of the safety protocols surrounding the shipment. The Zimrida, a Barbados-flagged vessel, is now at the center of scrutiny as officials assess the potential risks associated with the ammonium nitrate it carries.
Background of the Cargo Controversy
The controversy surrounding the ammonium nitrate shipment began with the vessel Ruby, which was damaged during an Arctic storm. Seeking refuge in Norway, Ruby faced multiple rejections from ports before finally being allowed to offload its cargo in Great Yarmouth, UK. The cargo consisted of nearly 20,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate fertilizer, initially shipped from Russia last summer. Following the incident, Serenity Ship Management, based in the UAE, arranged for the transfer of the cargo to the Zimrida, which they also manage.
However, reports surfaced in British media indicating that some of the cargo aboard Ruby had been contaminated with fuel oil. This contaminated portion was reportedly dumped into the North Sea. Now, concerns have shifted to the Zimrida, with local authorities in Abidjan fearing that the cargo it carries may also be compromised. The port officials have taken a cautious approach, deciding to hold the vessel offshore while they conduct meetings with the buyer, the carrier, and customs officials. This decision reflects a commitment to ensuring the safety of the local population and the integrity of the cargo being handled.
Port Authority’s Commitment to Safety
On January 4, port officials announced their decision to keep the Zimrida offshore while they convened with relevant stakeholders. The vessel had arrived off the coast of Ivory Coast on December 30 and was scheduled to dock on January 6 to offload 3,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, which is stored in bags. However, the port has not disclosed plans for the remainder of the cargo, leaving many questions unanswered.
The Port of Abidjan has emphasized that ammonium nitrate is a commonly used fertilizer and that all cargoes are subject to strict safety protocols. In their statement, they reassured the Ivorian population that all goods entering or leaving the port undergo diligent control by state services. The port authority highlighted that they handled 20,000 tonnes of traffic in 2023 and expect to manage 38,000 tonnes in 2024. As of late Monday afternoon, the Zimrida remains anchored offshore, awaiting further instructions from port authorities. The situation continues to unfold as officials prioritize safety and transparency in their operations.
