Maritime Transport: Cameroon Adopts Online Registration 🚢

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To address criticisms of leniency associated with its maritime flag, Cameroon is modernizing its system with fully digital registration. The Minister of Transport, Jean Ernest Massena Ngalle Bibehe, recently unveiled the new process for acquiring transport documents, particularly for maritime transport. This initiative aims to clean up the sector and strengthen its international reputation.

A digital revolution in ship registration 🚢

Minister Jean Ernest Massena Ngalle Bibehe introduced this reform in Cameroon’s maritime sector. From December 2, 2024, shipowners and operators will access a dedicated platform to submit 17 required documents for registration.

This system aims to reduce administrative burdens and ensure greater transparency. The process will accelerate formalities while securing data on registered ships.

A flag long accused of leniency ❌

Cameroon has previously been seen as a haven for ships involved in illicit activities. Vessels sanctioned or non-compliant with international regulations have used the Cameroonian flag without thorough inspections.

This situation has drawn criticism from the international maritime community. For example, in February 2024, some ships under the Cameroonian flag were banned from entering UAE ports for failing to meet standards set by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) or the Emirates Classification Society-Tasneef.

Cameroonian authorities highlight a major obstacle: their exclusion from the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS). This network provides global access to ship history records. Jean Nlend, Director of Maritime Affairs, explained that this absence limits Cameroon’s ability to identify high-risk ships. While efforts have been made to join this network, no significant progress has been achieved. Furthermore, information-sharing agreements with partners like the United States, previously in place, have been suspended, further complicating risk management efforts.

A strategic move to restore the reputation of the Cameroonian flag 📈

With over 200 ships flying the Cameroonian flag, this digital reform presents an opportunity to enhance the country’s global maritime standing.

By offering stronger oversight of ship registration, Cameroon hopes to:

• Effectively combat illicit activities,
• Restore trust among international partners,
• Attract reliable operators to use its flag.

This digital transition could also pave the way for better integration into global information networks, provided current efforts are supported by diplomatic and technical advances.

A promising initiative, but challenges remain ⚠️

While this reform represents a turning point for Cameroon’s maritime sector, its success will depend on effective implementation and adoption by all stakeholders. Upcoming steps will include user training, platform security, and expanding access to international databases.

By committing to this modernization effort, Cameroon demonstrates its determination to reform its maritime sector. However, vigilance is necessary to ensure this initiative meets its ambitious objectives.

What’s Your Take ???  
Do you think digitizing ship registration will be enough to restore the international image of Cameroon’s maritime flag?