The launch event for the Maritime Law Association Gauteng Chapter (MLAGC), hosted and sponsored by Norton Rose Fulbright and Cox Yeats was a remarkable gathering of industry professionals and legal experts, providing a platform for insightful discussions and networking opportunities. This event took place on 25 March 2025.
Peter Lamb of Norton Rose Fulbright introduced the MLAGC and its steering committee consisting of himself, Aideen Ross (Cox Yeats), Sharmila Naidoo (Ernest & Young), Cynthia Nanthalall (Hollard), Advocate Ghandi Badela (Gauteng Bar), Alamein Jeffry Butt (Sapphire), Juliet Maullin (GIB), Vikesh Ramtahar (OMI), Mark Govender (AIG), Nicholene Naidoo Mazibuko (NRF) and Dineo Peta (Peta Attorneys). Peter Lamb highlighted the fundamental purpose, objectives, structure and values of the MLAGC.
The event consisted of three esteemed speakers:
Taryn Janse Van Rensburg and David Ellis of C Steinweg presented on "Managing Cargo Risk in Sub-Saharan Africa" and delved into the complexities and opportunities associated with cargo management in the region. It highlighted the diverse range of resources and commodities such as petroleum, natural gas, crude oil, diamonds, coffee, and textiles that are integral to the African economy. The presentation identified several challenges that impacted cargo risk management.
Peter Edwards of DAWSON EDWARDS & ASSOCIATES addressed the critical need for updated regulations governing the entry of foreign fishing vessels into South African waters. The primary focus is on protecting South Africa's marine resources and ensuring sustainable fisheries management. The current legal framework, including sections 49(1), regulation 11, and regulation 81 of the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA), is deemed insufficient. The presentation proposed new regulations to provide clarity and enforce stricter controls before foreign vessels enter South African waters.
Gavin Naidoo provided a comprehensive look at the services offered by Linsen Nambi Marine Surveying. He outlined the roles and responsibilities of marine surveyors and detailed the types of marine surveys conducted, including proactive inspections and retroactive claims related to cargo in transit, hijacking, theft, and damage. The presentation also highlighted the operational characteristics and risks associated with South Africa's major commercial ports. Each port's unique challenges, including weather-related delays, operational inefficiencies, and theft risks, were discussed along with risk mitigation strategies like enhanced security measures, equipment maintenance, and real-time monitoring.
The three presentations were invaluable and covered a range of pertinent topics in maritime law. The expertise and insights of our speakers were instrumental in making the event both informative and engaging.
The MLA extends its gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this event.
The MLASA is run by an executive committee (Exco) elected from its members at its AGM. The Executive Committee meets regularly throughout the year and in turn establishes various sub-committees to deal with particular maritime legal issues.
