New safety push in African ferry sector
Interferry will co-host the Lagos Ferry Safety Conference next week (25–26 June) with the Maritime Organisation for West and Central Africa (Mowca) and the Lagos Waterways Authority (Laswa), as part of its "Ferrysafe" project to enhance maritime safety in West and Central Africa.
The region’s ferry industry plays a key role in trade and commuter transport, but faces safety challenges due to outdated vessels, poor infrastructure and limited training. Mowca, under the leadership of Dr Paul Adalikwu, is actively working to foster greater cooperation among its member states, while Lagos, with its growing ferry network, seeks operational guidance.
"In Lagos, waterborne transport is vital," said Laswa GM Oluwadamilola Emmanuel. Interferry CEO Mike Corrigan added that "the event marks an important step in supporting African ferry safety." The initiative follows Interferry’s 2024 seminars in Dar es Salaam and Marrakech and forms part of its 2024–26 strategic plan. (ah)