Managers of African ports and their European counterparts will be in Kenya next week to strategise on creating a better maritime sector for the continent.

The 10th Pan African Association for Port Cooperation (PAPC) conference to be held in Kwale brings together port executives, maritime experts, railway operators, logistics firms and regional economic groups.

It is in line with Africa Integrated Marine Strategy (Aims), which targets to raise the continent’s maritime sector to world-class standards.

It will be hosted by the Kenya Ports Authority under the auspices of the International Association of Ports and Harbours.

The theme of this year’s conference is Contemporary Port Development and Management: Africa Integrated Marine Strategy.

“Besides seeking ways of improving the efficiency and productivity of African ports and promoting their interest on the global maritime front, the conference will also provide an opportunity for participants to gain an in-depth awareness of the Aims strategy,” KPA managing director Gichiri Ndua said in a statement on Monday.

Many African countries are landlocked. In an increasingly globalised world where trade is vital to economic development, ports are seen as a crucial asset.

Although African facilities have undergone rapid modernisation in recent years, poor hinterland infrastructure such as roads and railways have constrained growth.

Source: Daily Nation

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