Regulatory authority Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) – with the support of the Ministry of Works, Transport and Communications, Tanzania - will be fellow hosts of the event, where Interferry and the IMO are each inviting around 50 industry representatives from African states most affected by domestic ferry accidents.

Seminar sessions will feature speakers and panellists examining the various issues that directly impact on safe maritime operations – including ticketing and passenger counting, loading and stowage, vessel design and classification, and last but not least political will.

Interferry has previously been proactive on safety in developing regions with interventions in Bangladesh and the Philippines, which increased awareness among regulators, operators and the travelling public, notably via the association's FerrySafe initiative on safety culture and mentoring.

The regional shift to Africa consolidates the association´s increased focus on the continent, which will continue this October 26-30 when Interferry holds its 48th annual conference in Marrakesh, Morocco, with an agenda including a follow-up on the African safety seminar.

"Improving safety standards in Africa is a primary objective for Interferry due to the high level of incidents in some of its states," says CEO Mike Corrigan. "We are not going to Tanzania to lecture anyone. Together with our event partners, we will be fielding a team of seasoned professionals whose purpose is to listen, exchange experience and share best practices on both operational and regulatory levels.

"In the weeks to come, Interferry's full focus will be on reaching out to the regional industry for their support. We are calling on all interested parties to spread the word about the seminar and exchange contacts and information, so that we can attract the highest possible number of relevant delegates."