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For many years, the Africa Transport Policy Program (SSATP) has partnered with the Port Management Association for West and Central Africa (PMAWCA) to advance innovations in port statistical systems, container terminal concessions, and, more recently, the digital readiness of African ports. Building on this longstanding collaboration—and in line with SSATP’s Fourth Development Plan (DP4) focus on leveraging digitization for enhanced regional connectivity—SSATP was invited to participate in the 44th PMAWCA Annual Council Meeting and 19th Managing Directors Round Table Conference, which took place in Conakry, Guinea, from November 18–21, 2024.

From transport efficiency to supply chain resilience, this gathering brought together over 300 thought leaders, port authorities, and logistics professionals to discuss the complex challenges of maintaining seamless connectivity between ports and their hinterlands. The main theme of the event, “Optimizing Hinterland Connectivity: Challenges of Connectivity, Flexibility, and Reliability,” underscored the importance of modernizing African ports and streamlining maritime operations to foster sustainable economic growth across the continent.

Collaborating for Maritime Facilitation

During the Annual Council Meeting, SSATP actively engaged with PMAWCA technical committees—particularly the network of harbormasters and port facility security officers—to tackle pressing challenges in maritime facilitation. Recognizing the urgent need for African ports to keep pace with evolving global standards—especially those set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL Convention)—SSATP and PMAWCA agreed to organize a dedicated workshop on Maritime Single Windows (MSW) at the next committee session in June 2025. By focusing on digitization, this workshop will help member ports enhance their digital capabilities while fulfilling the latest international requirements.

The IMO FAL Convention and MSW Initiative

The impetus for introducing MSWs across the continent stems from the FAL Convention, which came into effect on January 1, 2024, through Resolution FAL.14(46). Under this global mandate, ports worldwide must establish single-window systems to streamline ship call clearance, reduce administrative burdens, and improve efficiency by standardizing and simplifying documents and procedures. Nearly a year into its enforcement, however, only a handful of African ports have adopted MSWs, and even fewer can process all mandatory declarations digitally. These gaps highlight the critical need for capacity-building and technical support in implementing MSWs.

SSATP’s Support for MSW Development

To help African ports and countries modernize their systems and meet international obligations, SSATP is collaborating with the IMO to develop a comprehensive, hands-on guide for effectively establishing and implementing MSWs. Featuring real-world case studies from African ports already operating MSWs, this guide will offer practical insights, share good practices, and capture lessons learned from the field. By harnessing MSWs, African ports can significantly reduce vessel turnaround times, boost their competitiveness, and strengthen supply chain resilience, among other benefits—ultimately supporting stronger African trade and economic growth.

SSATP will also convene specialized workshops with the port associations’ network of harbormasters—key actors in the ship call process—beginning with the Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA) in March 2025, followed by the PMAWCA workshop in June 2025.

A Renewed Commitment to Sustainable Maritime Development

In the face of evolving challenges, the enduring partnership between SSATP and PMAWCA illustrates how strategic alliances can help address complex maritime issues, foster innovation, and promote regional trade growth and competitiveness. As SSATP continues to develop practical tools, share knowledge, and convene targeted workshops focused on improving regional connectivity through digitalization, it stands ready to help African ports advance their modernization efforts in compliance with international standards.

The 44th Annual Council Meeting concluded with the handover of PMAWCA’s chairmanship from Gabon’s port authority (OPRAG) to the CEO of the Nigeria Ports Authority, symbolizing a renewed commitment to regional collaboration in Africa’s maritime sector.