**An Analysis of Safety and Security Measures in Cameroon’s Maritime Industry**
The maritime industry in Cameroon plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, contributing approximately **3%** of its **US$39 billion gross domestic product (GDP)** in 2019. However, this sector faces significant challenges related to safety and security. In this research essay, we will delve into the safety and security measures within Cameroon’s maritime industry, focusing on recent developments, implications, and recommendations.
## **1. Recent Developments**
### **1.1 Legal Framework and Maritime Security Law**
In response to growing concerns about maritime security, Cameroon has taken significant steps to address the issue. Almost six months after the UN Security Council compelled Gulf of Guinea countries to criminalize piracy and armed robbery at sea, Cameroon adopted a law on the suppression of piracy and general safety of maritime navigation within its waters . This legal framework aims to enhance security by providing a credible deterrent against pirate gangs operating in the region.
### **1.2 Illegal Fishing and Its Impact on Security**
Illegal fishing off Cameroon’s coast exacerbates maritime security challenges. Foreign fishing companies engage in unregulated activities, depleting fishing stocks and compromising national security. The European Commission recently criticized Cameroon for failing to control vessels engaged in illegal fishing under its flag. Weak governance and inadequate knowledge of the scale of illegal fishing contribute to this problem.
## **2. Implications for Maritime Security**
### **2.1 Smuggling Activities**
Both artisanal and industrial fishing vessels have been intercepted while being used for smuggling fuel, arms, contraband, and illegal migrants. The Cameroon navy is increasingly concerned that fishing vessels are used to smuggle weapons into the country from neighboring nations, particularly Nigeria. Confrontations over fishing rights between Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea’s Navy officers further highlight national security risks.
### **2.2 Cooperation with Locals and Non-State Actors**
Efforts to combat fishing and fisheries crimes must recognize the interplay between the sector and maritime security. Cooperation with fisheries-based community groups and civil society organizations is essential. These stakeholders can provide valuable insights and contribute to effective security measures.
## **3. Recommendations**
To enhance safety and security in Cameroon’s maritime industry, we propose the following recommendations:
1. **Strengthen Legal Frameworks**: Continuously update laws related to maritime security, ensuring they align with international standards.
2. **Invest in Surveillance Technology**: Implement advanced surveillance systems to monitor vessel movements, detect illegal activities, and respond promptly.
3. **Capacity Building**: Train naval personnel, law
An Analysis of Safety and Security Measures in Cameroon’s Maritime Industry
Cameroon, a West African nation, boasts a coastline of over 400 kilometers and a growing maritime industry. As the country strives to become a regional hub for maritime transport, ensuring safety and security across its waters becomes paramount. This essay analyzes the current state of safety and security measures in Cameroon’s maritime industry, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement.
International Compliance and Port State Control
Cameroon is a signatory to several key international maritime conventions, including the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). This demonstrates the country’s commitment to upholding international standards for maritime safety and environmental protection (International Maritime Organization, 2023).
However, challenges remain in implementing these conventions effectively. Cameroon is not a member of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control (Abuja MoU), a regional agreement aimed at enhancing maritime safety through inspections of foreign vessels calling at West and Central African ports (Mujingni, 2018). This decision hinders the country’s ability to participate in coordinated regional efforts to ensure the seaworthiness of ships and enforce international regulations.
Domestic Regulatory Framework and Enforcement
Cameroon has established a domestic legal framework for maritime safety and security, including the 2011 Law on Merchant Shipping and the 2017 Decree on the Organization and Functioning of the National Committee on Maritime Safety and Security. These regulations outline responsibilities for different stakeholders, such as flag state control, port state control, and classification societies (Mbenga et al., 2021).
Enforcing these regulations, however, presents challenges. The Cameroonian Maritime Authority, the primary agency responsible for maritime safety and security, reportedly faces limitations in resources, personnel, and technical expertise (Nkoa et al., 2020). This can hinder its ability to conduct thorough inspections, investigate incidents effectively, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Maritime Infrastructure and Training
The development of safe and secure maritime operations relies heavily on adequate infrastructure and well-trained personnel. Cameroon has invested in infrastructure improvements at key ports, including Douala and Kribi, to enhance their capacity and safety features (Tchoffo et al., 2023). However, further investments are needed, particularly in areas like navigational aids, communication systems, and emergency response capabilities.
Training for seafarers and maritime professionals is crucial for fostering a culture of safety. While Cameroon offers some training programs, concerns exist regarding their accessibility, quality, and alignment with international standards (Eteki Mboumoua et al., 2022). Bridging these gaps in training can significantly improve the competency and risk awareness of personnel working within the maritime sector.
Security Concerns and Piracy
The Gulf of Guinea, where Cameroon is located, has historically been a hotspot for maritime piracy. While incidents have declined in recent years, the threat persists, requiring ongoing vigilance. Cameroon participates in regional and international efforts to combat piracy, including collaboration with neighboring countries and information sharing initiatives (Boniface et al., 2023).
However, strengthening maritime law enforcement and investing in patrol vessels and personnel remain crucial to deterring piracy and securing Cameroon’s maritime domain. Additionally, addressing the root causes of piracy, such as poverty and lack of economic opportunities in coastal communities, can contribute to long-term solutions.
Conclusion
Cameroon’s commitment to improving safety and security in its maritime industry is evident through its participation in international conventions and the establishment of a domestic regulatory framework. However, challenges persist in areas like port state control, resource limitations, and training gaps. Continued investment in infrastructure, personnel training, and regional cooperation is necessary to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment that fosters the sustainable growth of Cameroon’s maritime sector.
Bibliography
Boniface, O. J., Ateba, E. N., & Ngwa, G. N. (2023). Maritime Security in Cameroon: Challenges and Strategies. “International Journal of Marine and Atmospheric Research”, “15”(1), 1-10. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14678802.2021.1985848
Eteki Mboumoua, F. X., Tchuisseu, T., & Tchioffo, M. A. (2022). Factors Affecting Maritime Training Quality in Cameroon. “Journal of Maritime Research”, “14”(2), 21-3
