The inaugural Africa Maritime Conference, held under the theme "Navigating the Future of Africa’s Blue Economy," vibrantly concluded today at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa.

This historic three-day continental gathering took place from October 14 to 16, 2025, bringing together a distinguished assembly of government officials, global maritime leaders, university representatives, shipping industry executives, and professionals from across Africa and beyond. The conference aimed to serve as a platform for strategic engagement, knowledge exchange, and collaboration, focusing on shaping the vision, policies, and actions necessary to unlock Africa’s maritime potential. Over the course of three days, discussions revolved around framing Africa’s maritime aspirations, laying the groundwork for a continental crewing and training agenda, and aligning governance, investment, and cooperation towards a unified African maritime strategy.

Among the institutions that made a significant impact was Bahir Dar University (BDU), which stood out for the achievements of its Maritime Academy—a pioneering center that has produced over 2,000 skilled graduates currently serving in the industry. The University’s delegation, led by Dr. Mengesha Ayene, President of Bahir Dar University, played a key role in the conference's discussions and deliberations.

During the official launch session, Dr. Mengesha delivered an inspiring statement highlighting Bahir Dar University’s vision to enhance maritime excellence and transform Bahir Dar into a vibrant maritime city. His message resonated with the broader continental ambition of developing Africa’s blue economy through education, innovation, and collaboration.

In recognition of its outstanding contributions and enduring partnership in advancing Ethiopia’s maritime capacity, Bahir Dar University received a special award of appreciation from the conference organizers. This award celebrates the University’s consistent efforts to support the nation’s growing role in global seafaring and its commitment to producing world-class maritime professionals.

Beyond the formal sessions, the conference provided a valuable platform for networking, forging new partnerships, and strengthening existing collaborations among universities, maritime academies, industry professionals, and policymakers.

As this landmark event concludes, the outcomes of the First Africa Maritime Conference are poised to chart a transformative course for the continent’s maritime future, with Bahir Dar University proudly positioned at the heart of this journey towards Africa’s Blue Renaissance.