Senegal and Guinea-Bissau deepen maritime cooperation at west africa blue economy forum

The commitment to strengthen maritime transport and blue economy cooperation in West Africa took center stage at a major international forum held in Dakar. Government officials, maritime authorities, and development partners from across the region gathered to discuss critical challenges and opportunities in shipping, port logistics, and regional integration.

High-level delegation from Guinea-Bissau drives regional maritime agenda

Florentino Mendes Pereira, Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Transport, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy, led a high-profile delegation to the event. The forum brought together policymakers, maritime experts, and development stakeholders to address governance, port efficiency, and regional connectivity—key pillars for unlocking the economic potential of the Gulf of Guinea.

Guinea-Bissau’s participation reflects a broader strategy to modernize its port infrastructure, enhance maritime safety, and foster deeper economic ties with neighboring countries. By prioritizing regional collaboration, the country aims to position itself as a key player in West Africa’s blue economy transformation.

Senegal’s president highlights shared vision for sustainable maritime growth

Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal, underscored the importance of solidarity between nations in advancing maritime development. During the forum’s opening session, he praised Guinea-Bissau’s engagement, calling it a “brother nation,” and emphasized how collective action could turn the blue economy into a sustainable growth engine for the region.

Key discussions focus on infrastructure, green shipping, and digital innovation

Over two days of deliberations, participants explored critical priorities, including:

• Upgrading coastal shipping services to improve intra-regional trade
• Expanding and modernizing port facilities to boost efficiency
• Advancing shipbuilding and maritime industries
• Promoting eco-friendly shipping practices and reducing carbon emissions
• Accelerating digital transformation in maritime logistics and port operations

The forum also addressed human resource development, scientific research, and the mobilization of public-private investment to support these ambitious goals.

Business and innovation take center stage at exhibition and networking events

Parallel to the main discussions, an international exhibition and business matchmaking sessions provided a platform for public and private sector actors to explore new collaboration opportunities. Entrepreneurs, investors, and maritime professionals engaged in talks on joint ventures, technological innovation, and investment in port and logistics infrastructure.

The Guinea-Bissau delegation included Gualdino Afonso Té, President of the Maritime and Port Institute, and Félix Nandungue, Director General of Ports Administration, both instrumental in shaping the country’s maritime policy and port management strategies.

Forum aligns with Senegal’s long-term economic vision

The event was organized by the Government of Senegal as part of its broader development strategy. It supports the goals outlined in Senegal’s Vision 2050 and the National Development Strategy 2025-2029, which aim to establish Senegal as a leading maritime and logistics hub in West Africa while fostering deeper regional cooperation through the blue economy.