Blue Economy Charting Its Course in Lomé
Blue Economy Charting Its Course in Lomé
The Port Authority of Kribi Shines at the Heart of Africa’s Maritime Sustainability Dialogue
From September 10 to 12, 2025, the Togolese capital hosted the 2nd edition of the Maritima Africa Week — a major gathering for Africa’s maritime and port community. The Port Authority of Kribi (PAK) took an active part in the event, showcasing its environmental and social initiatives in support of a sustainable blue economy.
The city of Lomé came alive to the rhythm of the oceans. For three days, the Togolese capital hosted the 2nd edition of Maritima Africa Week, now an essential meeting point for maritime and port stakeholders across the continent. Experts, policymakers, private operators, and civil society representatives discussed the challenges and opportunities tied to Africa’s blue economy.
The opening ceremony, chaired by Ismael Kodjo Komi, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Maritime Economy of Togo, set the tone:
“Africa’s future lies in better valuing its maritime and coastal spaces. The blue economy knows no borders,”
he stated, calling for a collective and united vision.
Engaging Dialogues on Sustainability and Innovation
Discussions focused on several key themes: the connection between ports and hinterlands, participatory governance, marine ecosystem protection, and maritime safety.
Presentations by Derman Abdoul Razak (Port of Lomé), Dr. Ahouandokoum Damien, Abra Olanlo, and Odilon Ghislain Anato offered valuable insights into the many dimensions of Africa’s maritime transformation.
Other topics such as port cybersecurity, presented by Florentine Guihard Koidio, and regional cooperation in maritime surveillance, led by Colonel Aké Lazare of ISMI, also captured strong attention from participants.
The Port Authority of Kribi: A Committed Ocean Advocate
One of the highlights of the forum was the Port Authority of Kribi’s presentation, which drew significant interest.
PAK showcased its concrete efforts in protecting marine and coastal ecosystems, promoting corporate social responsibility, and raising awareness among local communities.
Its exhibition stand was among the most visited, reflecting the growing interest in this young Cameroonian port hub driven by sustainability and innovation.
A Symbolic and Hopeful Closing
The forum concluded on an inspiring environmental note with visits to the Port of Lomé and ERD Africa NGO, followed by the symbolic release of a hundred baby sea turtles into the ocean — a powerful reminder that the blue economy cannot thrive without a shared environmental consciousness.
Kribi: A Key Player in Africa’s Emerging Maritime Geopolitics
By taking an active part in this forum, the Port Authority of Kribi reaffirmed its role as a pioneer in sustainable port management and a strategic partner in building a resilient and prosperous maritime Africa.
Kribi thus positions itself as a central actor in the new geopolitics of the oceans — where economic growth and sustainability move forward hand in hand.
