The OMAOC Visits the Asaba Shipyard in Malabo to Promote Maritime Training and the Shipbuilding Industry
In a bid to enhance the maritime industry in Equatorial Guinea, a delegation from the Organization of Maritime Administrations of Central and West Africa (OMAOC) recently visited the ASABA facilities in the Port of Malabo. Led by Secretary General Dr. Paul Adalikwu, the delegation included Colonel Mariko Mamadou, Dr. Jethro Brooks (Vice-Chancellor of the Accra Regional Maritime University, Ghana), and the Director General of the Abidjan Regional Academy of Marine Sciences and Techniques (Ivory Coast).
Exploring Opportunities for Collaboration
During the visit, the delegation had the opportunity to tour the construction and repair workshops, slipways, and maintenance areas at the ASABA facilities. They closely observed a 15-meter-long boat with a cruising speed of 25 knots, which has already been completed. The visit aimed to showcase the capabilities available in Equatorial Guinea for vessel construction, repair, and maintenance while exploring potential collaborations between the shipyard, OMAOC, and its maritime training institutions.
Investing in Human Resources for the Future
The Ministry of Transport, Telecommunications, and Civil Aviation in Equatorial Guinea is spearheading an initiative to train a new generation of maritime professionals over the next five years. This initiative aims to equip young Equatorial Guineans with the necessary skills and experience to meet the demands of the maritime-port sector. By combining academic training, practical experience, professional training, and industry expertise, the country is working towards a sustainable future in the maritime industry.
Striving for Regional Excellence
Equatorial Guinea, with its strategic geographical location, ports, naval infrastructure, and participation in regional maritime organizations, is poised to become a regional leader in maritime training, port services, naval industry, maritime security, and the blue economy. By investing in highly trained and specialized national human resources, the country aims to fulfill its roles as a Flag State, Port State, and Coastal State effectively.
The visit by the OMAOC delegation marks a significant step towards strengthening Equatorial Guinea’s position as a maritime and industrial platform in the Gulf of Guinea. With a focus on collaboration, training, and industry development, the country is paving the way for a bright future in the maritime sector.
