Building Momentum Through Collaboration And Clarity

Steady progress across Africa, with stronger engagement, growing membership, wand increasing regional alignment in bunkering

The past quarter has marked a positive and purposeful step forward in IBIA’s engagement across Africa, with a clear emphasis on strengthening industry alignment, deepening regulatory relationships, and expanding regional participation. While progress remains measured, there is a growing sense of momentum, supported by a shared understanding that collaboration will be central to unlocking the region’s bunkering potential.

A key milestone was the series of industry forum discussions initiated alongside ship.energy’s Maritime Week Africa. These sessions brought together a broad cross-section of stakeholders, including the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), FIASA, and emerging local bunker associations. A consistent theme emerged: the absence of a coordinated platform for dialogue across the bunkering value chain. This gap presents a clear opportunity for IBIA to support a more structured, inclusive forum that enables alignment on priorities and facilitates practical, industry-led progress.

Engagement with SAMSA has been particularly encouraging. Discussions with CEO Captain Dennis Mqadi reflected a renewed sense of leadership and openness to collaboration, alongside a clear reaffirmation of SAMSA’s regulatory mandate. This balance provides a strong foundation for constructive engagement between industry and regulator.

Building on this, a proposal has been put forward to establish a South African Bunkering Forum. Envisaged as a strategic platform rather than an operational body, the forum would cover both import and offshore bunkering, led by SAMSA with support from IBIA. There is strong alignment within the Regional Board that such an initiative should complement existing regional efforts, including those in Algoa Bay, ensuring a cohesive and coordinated approach.

At the time of writing, developments in the Arabian Gulf continue to influence global energy markets, with a direct impact on African bunkering dynamics. Shifts in vessel routing, pricing volatility, and supply considerations are being closely monitored across the region, reinforcing the importance of resilience, flexibility, and regional preparedness.

Alongside these developments, IBIA’s membership across Africa continues to grow steadily, reflecting increasing engagement and interest across the region. As this momentum builds, there is a clear need to strengthen representation across North, South, East and West Africa to ensure a truly balanced regional voice. There also remains a valuable opportunity to reconnect with previously active members, particularly in Nigeria, as part of a broader effort to further expand and strengthen the regional network.

Looking ahead, a focused Africa webinar is under consideration. This initiative is intended to provide a practical platform for engagement, allowing members to connect on key regional topics, while also supporting outreach to new and lapsed participants.

Overall, the past quarter reflects a region moving forward with greater alignment, stronger institutional engagement, and a clearer sense of direction. While challenges remain, the foundations are being laid for a more coordinated and resilient bunkering landscape across Africa.

IBIA warmly encourages members and industry stakeholders to engage further and contribute to this ongoing dialogue. For continued involvement and regional engagement, please reach out to the Regional Manager, Tahra Sergeant.

Tahra Sergeant
Regional Manager (Africa) & Global Head, Events
[email protected]