Transport Department to ensure balanced representation at the International Maritime Organisation

The Transport Department said that it will ensure balanced representation at the International Maritime Organisation.

South Africa was reinstated during the 34th assembly after being left out of the council in 2021.

It now joins Category C for the 2026 to 2027 term.

Countries on the council help shape global maritime rules, including shipping, safety, ocean protection and maritime security.

 The announcement was made at the IMO headquarters in London on Friday.

Department Spokesperson Collen Msibi said, "South Africa was a member of the IMO council for 22 years since 1999. It has, however, been out in the cold since 2021 after not being re-elected to the council, so it has now been re-elected under Category C for the 2026-2027 term. This category comprises countries with specific interests in maritime transport or navigation."