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Shipping plays a pivotal role in trade between Africa and the world, carrying over 95% of goods between Africa and the rest of the world. The shipping world as a whole has witnessed significant developments over the last two decades. There has been considerable industry consolidation and restructuring of the industry. New developments in communication technology have meant that shippers and agents can now track ships and goods carried on board all over the world. Ships also have much improved communications with ports which allows for synchronized loading and unloading of cargo. These developments are crucial in minimizing transit times and ton-mile costs.
Southern and Central African countries are benefiting from the leadership of South Africa as a major transshipment point, connecting the continent with the rest of the World. West African countries, however, must deal with the consolidation of the principal European carriers (OTAL and Delmas are now both owned by Bolloré) and with the decline of Abidjan which traditionally served as a regional hub.
Over the last few years, USTDA has invested in a number of port-related projects on the West-West Central coast of Africa, including in Cameroon, Cape Verde, Guinea, Senegal and Togo. Other areas of interest include Angola, Ghana and Sao Tome. The purpose of this orientation visit is to introduce Angola, Ghana and Sao Tome to the U.S. port system, and to solidify the links between African countries and U.S. technology and services in the countries where USTDA projects are under way.
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