Seaports in the Southern Africa are facing significant growth amid increasing international trade, but at the same time they are struggling with major security problems stemming from a range of criminal activities
According to a report released by the Institute of Security Studies in late 2010, South African seaports are key points of entry into the entire Southern Africa region for illicit drugs and other illegally imported goods. However, at the same time, seaports are the lifeblood of the global economy, without which international trade would ground to a halt. Over 90 percent of Africa's food and other integral supplies flow through seaports, the volume of which is expected to grow for the foreseeable future.
The security of these strategic infrastructure assets is therefore vital. Securing ports from threats such as terrorism, piracy, and theft, at the same time as combating illicit trade in drugs, stolen cars and even human beings, is an enormous challenge. Making sure Africa's ports have security systems and procedures of the highest quality is critical for the continued socioeconomic development of the region.
The International Quality and Productivity Centre's 2nd Annual Seaport Security Africa conference aims to address these issues. At the summit, to be held in Cape Town, South Africa, on September 27-28, global experts and regional leaders will discuss effective strategies for combating seaport security threats and challenges.
Key speakers will include Transnet Port Authority's national head of security Jabulani Moleya, who will discuss the overall strategic security situation of Africa's ports, including the threat posed by pirates in and around the Horn of Africa. Nancy Karigithu, director-general of Kenya's Maritime Authority, will outline the security control systems in place at Port Mombasa and will examine the importance of security in growing trade volumes.
Combating stowaways and stemming illegal immigration is another key port security issue, and Arshaad Fester, the Port Of Cape Town's security manager will review the effectiveness of current controls measures. Captain GL Mokiwa, assistant port manager at Tanzania's principal port in Dar Es Salaam will discuss the Tanzania Port Master Plan and how security will be extended and integrated with port development.