Maritime charity Stella Maris has launched a new mission in East Africa to support seafarers facing extended stays at sea due to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. The operation in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, led by Kenyan chaplain Father Patrick Musumbu, aims to assist seafarers dealing with mental and physical health issues, isolation, and loneliness caused by longer journey times.
Paris MoU has released guidelines for certifying Seafarers and Manning Requirements in line with STCW Convention, MLC, and SOLAS. SOLAS V/14.2 applies to ships under SOLAS 1974, while STCW 1978 and MLC, 2006 apply to seafarers on seagoing ships. Inspections should note deficiencies related to these conventions, with specific focus on verifying certificates and endorsements. PSCC instructions should be followed for MLC deficiencies.
Adrian Parungao reported on the return of two Filipino seafarers killed in a missile attack in the Gulf of Aden. The MV True Confidence vessel was targeted by Houthi rebels, resulting in casualties among the Filipino crew. The DMW confirmed the return of the deceased seafarers to the Philippines, with efforts being made to support their families during this tragic time.
The IMO sponsored a training session in Mombasa, Kenya on maritime security and SOLAS rule XI-2 compliance. Representatives from major agencies like KCGS, KMA, and KPA attended, focusing on port security in Eastern and Southern Africa. The initiative aims to enhance marine security in nine nations, emphasizing regional collaboration and strict compliance to ensure safety in crucial trade routes.
Five Filipino crew members of MV Transworld Navigator, attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, have returned to the Philippines. The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed that they received financial and other assistance upon arrival. Despite one minor injury, the rest were unharmed. The government imposed restrictions on Filipino seafarers from passing through war-like zones in response to the incident.
The Bermuda Maritime Academy has obtained international accreditation from the UK’s Maritime Coastguard Agency, marking a significant achievement. Offering STCW courses locally, the academy provides opportunities for Bermudians to work on commercial vessels. Chairman Michael Winfield expressed gratitude to supporters for their contributions. With courses starting in November 2024, the academy is preparing for potential changes in seamanship licensing.
Port Authority CEO Philip Holliday, NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas, and Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody revealed the initial recipients of funding in the $2.5 million five-year fund. Calfas praised the initiative for aiding seafarer charities in extending their services and ensuring consistent financial support.
STOAN has pledged support for the Mission to Seafarers (MTS) at Nigerian seaports. Chairman Princess Vicky Haastrup expressed the importance of assisting seafarers facing challenges at sea. Terminal operators like ENL Consortium have shown ongoing support for MTS, recognizing their vital role in addressing seafarers’ needs. MTS, founded in 1856, offers welfare services to merchant crews worldwide with the help of government agencies and terminal operators.
The Malaysian government has allocated RM10 million through PTPK to help seafarers enhance their skills, showing commitment to their development. Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasized the ministry’s efforts to promote the maritime industry to young people, highlighting the promising opportunities it offers. With support and courses available, the government aims to attract more individuals to the seafaring profession.
The RMT has criticized the Tory government for failing to protect seafarers, contrasting it with the proactive steps taken by the French government. New French laws will require ferry operators to pay their seafarers the national minimum wage and enforce limits on time spent onboard ships. RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch emphasized the need for mandatory protections for UK seafarers.
A ship’s captain reported that five rockets hit near his ship in the Red Sea, 150 nautical miles northwest of Hodeidah, Yemen. No damage was reported, and the ship continued north. International shipping has been disrupted by attacks from Yemen-based Houthi militias, leading some ships to avoid the Red Sea route.
The Mission to Seafarers in Singapore is bracing for the impact of the new Tuas Port. With its location posing challenges due to its distance from existing ports, the Mission is planning to establish a new drop-in center to cater to seafarers’ welfare needs. This expansion is crucial to ensure seafarers receive the necessary support as they navigate the challenges of the new port.
The Goa Maritime Officers Association (GMOA) hosted a successful event in Panaji, showcasing unity and generosity within the maritime community. With inspiring speeches, talented performances, and contributions to societal causes, the event highlighted camaraderie and community spirit. Distinguished personalities and organizations, including Capt Venzy Viegas and Anchor of Hope NGO, emphasized the importance of support and unity.
A recent study shows that respondents believe increased diversity in the workforce will have a positive impact, with female participants rating its importance higher than male counterparts. Ying Ying Lim of Cargill stresses the need to break gender stereotypes in the workplace, while Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry emphasizes the importance of diversity in the maritime industry to address talent shortages.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) has found that decarbonization efforts in the shipping industry are increasing the workload, fatigue, and stress levels of seafarers. This highlights the challenges faced by those working at sea as the industry transitions to more sustainable practices, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of seafarers during this period of industry transformation.
