Durban hosted the Africa Maritime Investment Indaba, spotlighting the transformative potential of Africa’s Blue Economy, valued at an estimated US$3 trillion. The event attracted delegations from nearly 20 countries, including global stakeholders from China, India, and Russia, who discussed strategies to advance Africa’s maritime infrastructure and sustainability.

The Blue Economy, a concept that encapsulates the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and environmental health, was the Indaba’s central theme. Africa’s ocean economy is ripe for development across sectors including aquaculture, tourism, port infrastructure, and coastal city resilience, as reported by
DUrbanTV, a partner of TV BRICS.

Key sessions at the Indaba provided detailed insights into potential investments, unveiling pipeline projects designed to transform Africa’s maritime landscape. International experts, including delegations from China, India, Russia, Egypt, brought fresh ideas and cutting-edge solutions to support Africa’s maritime ambitions.

According to the experts present, the Port of Durban played a central role in the discussions, emphasising its importance as a regional and global trade hub. Obakeng Molelu of the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association highlighted how port-driven urbanisation is reshaping cities like Durban. “There is a lot of investment going into the port; infrastructure is important, increasing port throughput is important, but what then happens to the city is that the city then operates at a responsive rate,” she said.

By fostering partnerships, addressing urban and environmental challenges, and leveraging the potential of the Blue Economy, the event positioned Durban as a key player in Africa’s maritime transformation and global trade network.

The event underscored the strategic importance of Africa’s ports, particularly the Port of Durban, in the global shipping industry, highlighting their pivotal role in facilitating trade, enabling urban development, and driving sustainability initiatives.

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