A STRONG START FOR IBIA AFRICA IN 2025
The first quarter of the year has set a positive pace for IBIA Africa, with dynamic engagement across the region and exciting developments for our members
The first quarter of 2025 has been a particularly busy and energising period for IBIA Africa, marked by strong regional engagement, key industry discussions and important leadership transitions.
IBIA was proud to support Maritime Week Africa, hosted by ship.energy, in Mauritius earlier this year. It was a pleasure for me, as IBIA’s Regional Manager and Global Head: Events, to moderate a lively and insightful panel discussion, bringing together leading voices from the South African bunkering sector. The panel featured IBIA members Graham Dreyden (AMSOL – African Marine Solutions Group), Siyamthanda Maya (South African Marine Fuels Pty Ltd), Durand Naidoo F.I.C.S (Linsen Nambi), and Wilhelm Wasserman (FFS Refiners).
The discussion explored a wide range of topics crucial to the region, including licensing processes, operational challenges, supply chain dynamics, environmental regulations, and the exciting future opportunities in the South African bunkering market. It was an energising conversation, reflecting the sector’s ambition and its commitment to sustainable and resilient growth.
IBIA was honoured to contribute to this important event and thanks go to ship.energy for hosting a highly successful Maritime Week Africa. It is clear that Africa’s role in the global bunkering sector is expanding, and IBIA remains committed to supporting our members and partners across the continent in navigating the opportunities and challenges ahead.
In further exciting news for the region, IBIA is pleased to announce the appointment of Jon Hughes, Managing Director of Dan-Bunkering Africa, as the new Chair of the IBIA Africa Regional Board.
Jon brings more than two decades of marine fuel industry experience, with deep expertise in bunker trading, supply chain management, and regional business development. His leadership at Dan-Bunkering Africa has been instrumental in the company’s growth and operational excellence across the African continent.
As Jon steps into this important leadership role, we would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Paul Maclons, who has served as Chair of the IBIA Africa Regional Board since 2021. Paul’s leadership has been characterised by professionalism, dedication, and a strong commitment to building IBIA Africa’s profile both regionally and globally. His contributions have left an enduring impact, and the entire IBIA Board and Secretariat thank him warmly for his service.
Commenting on his appointment,
Jon Hughes said:
“I am honoured to take on the role of IBIA Africa Chair and build on the solid foundations laid by Paul Maclons and previous Chairs. I look forward to working with colleagues across the region to further strengthen collaboration, promote sustainable practices, and support the continued growth of Africa’s bunkering sector.”
We are confident that Jon’s expertise and leadership will steer IBIA Africa towards new heights, enhancing opportunities for our members and supporting the industry’s continued development.
We are also delighted to welcome Joshua Kwabena Duodu, Head of Technical & Special Products Department at GOIL, to the IBIA Africa Regional Board. Joshua’s expertise and passion for the industry will be a great addition as we continue to expand the Board’s regional representation.
As we look ahead, IBIA Africa is focused on strengthening member engagement and industry dialogue. We are excited to announce that we will be hosting a South Africa Maritime Gathering in June — details will be shared shortly. We will also be launching an online Townhall Talk for our Africa members and the wider industry, providing a forum to hear directly from the market and better understand the needs, challenges, and aspirations of the African bunkering community.
The momentum is building, and IBIA Africa is proud to be at the forefront of the region’s growth story. We look forward to an active and impactful year ahead, working together with our members and stakeholders to advance the future of bunkering across Africa.
Tahra Sergeant
Regional Manager (Africa)
& Global Head, Events
tahra.sergeant@ibia.net