AFRICAN OBSERVATORY OF MARITIME TRANSPORT AND INTERMODALITY
The African Observatory for Maritime Transport and Intermodality is a platform dedicated to the analysis, monitoring, and optimization of maritime transport and logistics systems in Africa. It aims to enhance the performance of supply chains by integrating port, maritime, and intermodal dimensions—notably road, rail, and river networks.
Maritime transport constitutes a strategic pillar of African trade. More than 80% of international trade moves by sea, making the development of modern, efficient, and interconnected port infrastructure indispensable.
Mission
- Collect and analyze maritime transport data in Africa
- Monitor the performance of ports and logistics corridors
- Analyze trade flows and international exchanges
- Promote intermodality within African transport systems
- Support public policies as well as the various links of the global logistics chain
Key Objectives
- Improve the competitiveness of African ports
- Reduce logistics costs and lead times
- Strengthen regional and continental integration
- Foster better connectivity between transport modes
- Provide reliable indicators for strategic decision-making
Intermodality and integrated logistics
Intermodality refers to the efficient integration of multiple modes of transport within a single logistics chain. It enables ports to connect with land transport networks (road and rail), thereby facilitating the movement of goods to the port hinterland and inland areas, while optimizing transport costs and delivery times.
The Observatory’s Added Value
Through its analyses, data, and indicators, the African Observatory on Maritime Transport and Intermodality serves as a strategic tool for:
- Governments and public institutions
- Port authorities and infrastructure managers
- Operators and stakeholders in the global logistics chain
- Investors and economic partners
- Regional and international organizations
Legal Monitoring and Regulatory Framework
The Observatory also maintains continuous monitoring and provides a structured framework for the legal rules applicable to maritime transport and intermodality in Africa. This activity entails:
- Identifying and analyzing international and regional conventions applicable to maritime transport;
- Tracking developments in port, customs, and logistics regulations;
- Presenting an organized body of legal and regulatory texts;
- Facilitating access to legal information for public and private stakeholders;
- Supporting compliance and the harmonization of practices within the transport sector.
This monitoring contributes to strengthening legal certainty, transparency, and the efficiency of commercial exchanges at both the continental and international levels.