The 3rd GloFouling R&D Forum and Exhibition, held from 4–8 November 2024 in Busan, South Korea, brought together international experts, technology innovators, and maritime stakeholders under the theme “Shaping the Future of Biofouling.” The event provided a global platform to highlight ongoing research, technology demonstration projects, and collaborative initiatives aimed at tackling biofouling challenges across the shipping industry.
As an implementing partner of the TEST Biofouling Project, MTCC Africa was invited to actively participate in the forum, reflecting its growing role in advancing sustainable maritime practices in Africa and beyond. The Centre’s participation was aligned with its 2024 workplan, focusing on knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, and promoting regional engagement on biofouling management.
Through the forum, MTCC Africa engaged with leading experts and innovators in advanced hull-cleaning technologies, antifouling coatings, and inspection methodologies. This direct exposure allowed the Centre to:
- Build capacity on emerging biofouling solutions relevant to African ports.
- Strengthen regional networks by networking with international stakeholders and industry leaders.
- Gather insights on best practices that will be applied in upcoming national and regional technology demonstrations under the TEST Biofouling Project in Africa and beyond.
Beyond knowledge acquisition, MTCC Africa used the platform to amplify the regional perspective. In bilateral discussions, the Centre emphasized the importance of:
- Unified regional strategies for biofouling management.
- Streamlined communication channels between beneficiary countries.
- Closer collaboration among African maritime administrations to ensure consistent and long-term implementation of IMO guidelines.
Such advocacy not only highlighted Africa’s unique maritime challenges but also positioned the region as an active contributor to shaping global solutions.
MTCC Africa’s engagement at the Busan forum is expected to yield tangible benefits for Africa’s maritime community:
- Technology Transfer – Adoption of innovative antifouling systems and hull-cleaning methods tailored to African port environments.
- Capacity Building – Equipping regional stakeholders with technical knowledge to manage biofouling more effectively.
- Policy Influence – Ensuring African voices are represented in global discussions, supporting policies that address regional needs.
- Sustainability – Strengthening Africa’s contribution to reducing invasive aquatic species and cutting greenhouse gas emissions through improved vessel efficiency.
Participation in the 3rd GloFouling R&D Forum reinforced MTCC Africa’s commitment to supporting the overarching goals of the GEF-UNDP-IMO GloFouling Partnerships through the IMO-Norad TEST Biofouling Project. By sharing knowledge, fostering alliances, and integrating global innovations into regional initiatives, MTCC Africa continues to play a vital role in shaping a more environmentally responsible, resilient, and efficient maritime industry in Africa.
