Italian Frigate F375 – Nave Luigi Rizzo Docks at the Port of Kribi
Italian Frigate F375 – Nave Luigi Rizzo Docks at the Port of Kribi
Maritime Cooperation and Security in the Gulf of Guinea
On April 25, 2022, the deep seaport of Kribi welcomed the Italian military frigate F375 – Nave Luigi Rizzo, as part of joint maneuvers with the Cameroonian Navy. This port call underscores Italy’s contribution to strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, a strategic yet sensitive hub for international trade.
A Visit Marked by International Cooperation
The welcoming ceremony was attended by several diplomatic figures, including H.E. Filippo Scammacca, Italian Ambassador to Cameroon, and Sébastien Lejon, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union. Both emphasized Cameroon’s key role in bilateral and multilateral maritime security partnerships.
The Strategic Role of the Port of Kribi
With its highly enviable geostrategic position, the Port Authority of Kribi stands as the most suitable hub to support international initiatives for maritime safety.
The Luigi Rizzo Frigate on Mission in the Gulf of Guinea
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Third participation in maritime surveillance operations in the region.
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190 sailors onboard, including a detachment of San Marco Brigade fusiliers.
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Modern equipment: two NH-90 helicopters and advanced naval weaponry.
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Currently engaged in Operation “Gabinia”, which has contributed to maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea since February 2022.
A Coordinated European Presence
Italy’s presence falls under the “Coordinated Maritime Presence”, an EU initiative launched in January 2022 to ensure a continuous European naval presence in the Gulf of Guinea, thereby reinforcing maritime security.
The Gulf of Guinea: Vital Yet Vulnerable
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Holds about 7% of global offshore hydrocarbon reserves.
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Stretches from Côte d’Ivoire to Angola, including Cameroon, Nigeria, and Togo.
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Classified in 2016 as the world’s most dangerous maritime zone, due to recurrent piracy, armed robbery, vessel hijackings, and crew kidnappings for ransom.
