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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 32726, member: 636"]
Gambia hosted a major port control working group on Monday, gathering maritime experts from across West and Central Africa. The meeting brought together 22 countries under the Abuja agreement to check ships entering regional ports. Maritime Security Director Ebrima Jobe explained that they inspect vessels for safety rules that protect sailors' lives at sea.

The group aims to shield marine environments from pollution through regular checks. Ships entering ports face strict inspections, with regional targets set at 15% annual inspection rates. Acting GMA Director Binta Jallow-Ceesay promised more teamwork to remove substandard vessels from regional waters, helping trade flow better between countries.

Officials admitted facing problems like limited money, training gaps, plus non-compliant vessels despite recent progress. Maritime leaders want more training for inspection officers alongside better equipment to strengthen enforcement efforts. Secretary-General Sunday Micheal Umoren said they actively seek learning opportunities for member countries, urging attendees to become ambassadors for the agreement through strong performance.
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