MTCC Africa’s First Regional Workshop “Accelerating Inclusive Green Shipping in Africa: Energy Efficiency, Innovation, and Finance for a Low-Carbon Maritime Future”

Type of Activity: Regional Workshop

When: Tuesday, 11 November 2025

Walvis Bay, Namibia | November 11-13, 2025

MTCC Africa effectively hosted the First Regional Workshop under the GMN II – Global Maritime Technology Cooperation Centres Network Project, Phase 2, in Walvis Bay, Namibia.

Reducing emissions in the maritime sector calls for coordinated global action and strategic partnership. This Workshop brought together regional and international experts, innovators, government officials, industry leaders, academics, and environmental organisations to share innovative strategies and practical solutions, effectively developing Africa’s commitment to decarbonisation into significant progress.

Breakout groups delivered targeted recommendations in technology, operations, policy and finance, setting the groundwork for coordinated regional action.

Workshop Highlights summarised:

• Innovative strategies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions aligned with climate goals
• Quantifiable energy efficiency technology solutions advancing maritime decarbonisation in the continent
• Operational optimisation and vessel performance
• Climate financing opportunities for sustainable maritime projects
• Promoting gender equality within maritime energy-efficiency initiatives by convening women, youth, and men in a shared session to collectively contribute to the dialogue, underscoring the shared commitment required for a just and equitable transition.

The event also marked a significant moment with GMN II’s DigiPorts Pilot official launch. This pilot project focuses on a new digital port call optimisation solution at two Namibian ports, enabling real-time coordination of ship arrivals and departures. The pilot is anticipated to reduce in-port GHG emissions by up to 7% annually.

Following the GMN II Workshop, Day 3 featured the European Commission’s organised Green Shipping Corridors Dialogue event, which assembled policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to explore pathways toward decarbonising maritime transport. Discussions were held on vessel efficiency to assess the framework required for future fuels solutions and support a sustainable transition within Africa’s maritime sector.