AMERICAN COAST GUARD DELEGATION VISITS ABIDJAN PORT

Sécurité maritime Thursday 09 January 2025

As part of U.S.-Ivorian cooperation on maritime safety and security, a delegation from the United States Coast Guard has been in Côte d’Ivoire since Monday, November 19, 2024.

The delegation, accompanied by the U.S. Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Her Excellency Jessica DAVIS BA, visited Abidjan Port on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. They were welcomed by Mr. Hien Yacouba SIÉ, Managing Director of the Abidjan Port Authority, for a working session.

The discussions focused on assessing and reviewing safety and security protocols at Abidjan Port facilities in line with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

During his opening remarks, Mr. Hien Yacouba SIÉ expressed his satisfaction with the continued presence of the U.S. Coast Guard at Abidjan Port. He praised commitment, assistance and their collaboration since 2012 in implementing maritime security measures.

U.S. Ambassador Jessica DAVIS BA commended the Abidjan Port Authority for significant progress made in securing the port, a key strategic location that enhances U.S.-Ivorian cooperation.

Present at this exchange session, Colonel YAPO Marina Madel, Director of Maritime Security and Property at the Directorate-General for Maritime and Port Affairs (DGAMP), also expressed her gratitude to the delegation for their effective support in strengthening safety and security at Ivorian ports.

Following the customary courtesies, all stakeholders—including the Abidjan Port Harbour Master’s Office, the Gendarmerie, the Special Police Unit of PAA, Ivorian Customs, Ivoire Port Security (ISP), and DGAMP—presented their ongoing actions and the material and human resources available to ensure safety and security at Abidjan Port.

The U.S. Coast Guard’s assessment at Abidjan Port will cover the Multi-Purpose Terminal (Trading Port), the Fishing Terminal, and the Fruit Terminal.

The ISPS Code, which Abidjan Port has complied with since 2004, serves as a true framework for preventing illicit acts. Its purpose is to ensure that appropriate and proportionate maritime security measures are in place both onboard ships and at port facilities.