Piracy around Africa is costing the continent millions

This is according to Tracey-Lee Zurcher, director of the Maritime & Coastal Security Africa conference and expo, which was officially opened by South African Defence minister Lindiwe Sisulu on 27 October at the CTICC in Cape Town.

Says Zurcher: "80% of Africa's GDP is reliant on safe sea trade to Africa as well as cargo passing through African waters. Not taking a stronger stance towards the increasing threats at sea can have dire economic effects on the African economy, with Africa losing goodwill and competitiveness as major players and service providers in international trade and transportation."

Reported cases of piracy-related crimes in the Indian and Atlantic Oceans have accelerated exponentially in 2011. According to Zurcher this is seriously affecting major trade routes, socio-economic development and natural resources and calls for stronger action to be taken by strengthening multi-lateral agreements between African and surrounding nations bordering the affected area.

Sea-related crimes are moving south

"In light of current challenges faced by seafaring bodies, governmental authorities and maritime defence forces are rethinking their strategies in 2011 and 2012. With sea-related crimes having reached an all-time high this year and militia attacks around East and West Africa moving further south and becoming too high profile to ignore, maritime security projects are now being expedited to protect sovereignty and ensure security at sea and ports of entry in Africa," she says.

The International Maritime Organisation's ISPS code is now also being implemented by port and ship authorities active in Africa as a matter of priority. The code was developed to enhance the security of ships and port facilities against the threats of piracy, terrorism and other maritime dangers and has proven to be very effective for those who understand the complex benefits of being ISPS compliant.

Maritime & Coastal Security Africa is officially supported by the South African Navy and Armscor, and includes VIP speaker representation from 11 countries - all with a vested interest in securing maritime routes and borders. The conference and technology exhibition is focused on creating and reinforcing international naval relations as well as bridging the communication gap between all seafarers in and around African waters.