Africa’s Merchant Marine fleet is a critical component of the continent’s economic growth and regional connectivity. Its significance extends beyond the basic transportation of products; it is a driver for prosperity, connection, and national security. By harnessing the power of the sea, Africa can chart a course towards sustainable development, prosperity, and resilience in the 21st century.
The Merchant Marine fleet serves as a crucial artery, supporting the movement of products and commodities across seas. In Africa, where economic growth and development are becoming increasingly important, the need for a strong Merchant Marine fleet cannot be stressed.
According to Global Firepower, a platform that annually updates statistics of militaries across the globe, “the merchant marine of a nation is a force of ships operating under civilian banners in peace times, and in times of war, commissioned by the naval branch of service to augment the main surface fighting force.”
Thus, the strength of a nation’s merchant marine is a key factor in assessing its total naval force.
On the commercial side, Africa’s vast coastline and numerous ports offer immense potential for maritime trade. A well-equipped Merchant Marine fleet enhances connectivity between African nations and the rest of the world, facilitating regional integration and cooperation.
By efficiently linking ports and enabling the movement of goods, a strong maritime force can bolster intra-African trade, which remains relatively low compared to other regions.
As mentioned earlier a strong Merchant Marine fleet plays a crucial role in safeguarding a nation’s sovereignty and security interests. A strong fleet improves a country’s capacity to defend its maritime boundaries, and combat piracy, illicit fishing, and other maritime crimes, ultimately protecting national interests and guaranteeing territorial integrity.
With that said here are the African countries with the strongest merchant marine fleet, according to the Global Firepower Index.
| 1. | Liberia | 4,311 | 5th |
| 2. | Nigeria | 832 | 23rd |
| 3. | Sierra Leone | 605 | 30th |
| 4. | Egypt | 436 | 38th |
| 5. | Tanzania | 322 | 43rd |
| 6. | Cameroon | 121 | 62nd |
| 7. | Algeria | 119 | 64th |
| 8. | South Africa | 107 | 66th |
| 9. | Libya | 94 | 71st |
| 10. | Morocco | 93 | 72nd |
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