Shipping

In order to address the current complex maritime security situation off the West Coast of Africa the Maltese Flag Administration has issued MSD Notice 159, according to which seafarers and operators of Maltese-flagged vessels are strongly advised to follow the recommendations found in the new publication for maritime security guidance for ships and seafarers operating in that region and the Gulf of Guinea. The Best Management Practices to Deter Piracy and Enhance Maritime Security off the Coast of West Africa including the Gulf of Guinea (BMP-WA) has replaced the previous guidelines for this area and is complementary to the piracy guidance in the latest International Maritime Organisation Resolutions and Circulars in this region.

Also, masters and operators of Maltese ships that operate or may operate in the coast of West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea are strongly advised to register on the website of the Maritime Domain Awareness for Trade-Gulf of Guinea (MDAT-GoG) which is a cooperation centre between the Royal Navy (UKMTO) and the French Navy (MICA-Center) in support of Yaounde Process that safeguards merchant ships operating in the region. By registering with this website shipowners, ship masters and agents are able to register their details securely, update positions of their vessels and receive information and guidance designed to reduce the risk of pirate attacks and MDAT-GoG is able to maintain coherent maritime situational awareness in those areas and also inform and support the industry effectively.

To read the Merchant Shipping Notice 159, click here.

Should you have any questions concerning this matter, please contact Dr Jotham Scerri-Diacono or any other member of the shipping team at Ganado Advocates.