Africa’s Maritime Domain Can Generate Over $405 Billion by 2030, Says Naval Chief
By Matthew Eloyi
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, has projected that Africa’s maritime domain holds the potential to generate over $405 billion by 2030.
Speaking at the 5th Sea Power for Africa Symposium (SPAS) in Cape Town, South Africa, Ogalla highlighted the significant economic prospects of the continent’s waters.
In a statement issued by the Director of Navy Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Ogalla stressed that Africa’s maritime resources could also generate $100 million from coastal tourism and create more than 57 million jobs across the continent.
He emphasised the importance of sustainable management of these resources as a key driver of economic growth and food security.
Ogalla underscored the African Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS) as a roadmap for wealth creation and ocean economy development.
He noted that the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is expected to boost intra-African freight by 28% and maritime transport demand by 62%.
“With over 20% of national revenues in some African countries derived from maritime activities, our waters are not only rich but also exposed to non-traditional threats,” Ogalla said, urging a united approach among African navies and coast guards to address security challenges.
The Naval Chief further highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role in maritime security, particularly through the implementation of the Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy. This strategy has been instrumental in Nigeria’s removal from the list of piracy-prone countries in March 2022.
Ogalla called for enhanced maritime security cooperation across Africa to ensure sustainable fisheries management, prevent oil spills, and foster long-term food security.
“The security of our maritime borders is essential for regional stability and economic prosperity,” he added, commending the outcomes of the symposium in opening new frontiers for Africa’s collective maritime agenda.
