Seafarers crucial as 90% of world trade done through shipping

According to The New Age, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) celebrated June 25 - the International Day for Seafarers - paying tribute to the men and women who spend their lives at sea. It is estimated that 90% of world trade goes through the sea and is facilitated by 1.5 million seafarers.

"As shipping is responsible for the carriage of more than 90% of the world trade, it is the seafarers who ensure the smooth running of the shipping engines and the safe delivery of essential items and commodities that enhance our lives on a daily basis," Samsa spokesperson Tsietsi Mokhele said, adding that he hopes that resolutions taken at the conference will help fast track initiatives undertaken to address challenges facing the sector, including increasing the number of local seafarers, reports The New Age.

South Africa prepares to host the country's first maritime industry conference, to be held at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town from July 4, enabling role players and participants to discuss the plight of seafarers and the challenges they face daily in their jobs.
More than 700 delegates from South Africa and the African continent are expected to attend the conference, The New Age says.

Read the full article on www.thenewage.co.za