events

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL Convention, 1965) seeks to streamline maritime operations by reducing formalities, documentary requirements, and procedures governing the arrival, stay, and departure of ships engaged in international voyages. In line with Resolution FAL.14(46), IMO member states were required to establish a national Maritime Single Window (MSW) by January 1, 2024. However, despite 28 African countries being signatories to the convention, only 8 have implemented an MSW to date.

In response, the Africa Transport Policy Program (SSATP) launched a dialogue with port authorities, Harbor Masters, port associations, the IMO, and regional institutions to better understand the challenges impeding MSW implementation. This engagement led to the development of a practical six-step checklist designed to support ministries of transport and port authorities in establishing a functional MSW.

This webinar will offer a platform for knowledge exchange and peer learning, enabling participants to gain insights into:

• The differences in scope and functionalities between Trade Single Windows, Maritime Single Windows, and Port Community Systems, and their application across African countries
• The six-step checklist for MSW implementation
• Practical country experiences and lessons learned from their successful MSW deployments

The event is intended for policymakers, port authority leaders, Harbor Masters, maritime industry stakeholders, and development partners—key actors in the digital transformation of Africa’s port systems. By bringing together this diverse group of stakeholders, this webinar will foster dialogue on how to overcome implementation barriers and seize the opportunities of digitalization in the maritime sector.

Webinar Materials:

• Webinar Agenda & Speaker Bios
• SSATP Report on MSWs, Catching up on Digital Port Infrastructure for Africa