A workshop was held in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, from 20 to 24 February to improve the country’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of an oil pollution incident. The event was the result of Guinea Bissau’s request for help in developing their National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP) from the Global Initiative for West, Central and Southern Africa (GI WACAF). It works with governments and industries to enhance oil spill preparedness, response and cooperation.  This was reported buy the IMO media service on 24 February.

Effective preparation

Having an NOSCP puts in place the foundation for an effective and sustainable oil spill preparedness and response framework. The aim of this workshop, tailored to Guinea-Bissau’s particular needs, was to develop specific key documents within the NOSCP. Those present reviewed the country’s strategic and operational plan and, with technical assistance from GI WACAF, Sensitivity Maps were developed, and the National Oil Dispersant Policy finalised. 

This event follows a National Workshop held in Bissau in 2022 at which the country’s National Oil Spill Contingency Plan was launched.

IMO’s commitment

The 20 to 24  February meeting forms part of IMO’s continuing commitment to support African Small Island Developing States (SIDs) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in the effective implementation of the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation (OPRC) Convention.

Illustration per www.imo.org

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