The Port Management Association for Eastern & Southern Africa offers the best possible framework for exchange of information, best-practices and ideas among members; to create an enabling environment whereby member can interface with one another in the port, transport and trade spaces. Read More about “About”…
Port Management Association of
Eastern & Southern Africa
Eastern & Southern Africa
PMAESA Secretariat Hosts Business Delegation from India to Explore Maritime Collaboration
17 December 2025
On 15 December 2025, the PMAESA Secretariat hosted a high-level delegation from India, headed by Mr. Charles Francis and Mr. Balaji Ganesh, Directors of BDG Engineering Pvt. Ltd. and St. Nicholas Marine Solutions Pvt. Ltd. respectively. Both organizations are based in Chennai, India.
The delegation paid a courtesy visit to the PMAESA Secretary General, Col. Andre Ciseau, to explore potential avenues for collaboration within the African ports and maritime sector.
Discussions focused on opportunities for partnership across several strategic areas, with particular emphasis on ship repair services and maritime education and training. The engagement also reflected the delegation’s interest in exploring opportunities in the Kenya and strengthening cooperation within the wider Eastern and Southern African region.
In his remarks, the Secretary General highlighted PMAESA’s ongoing and ambitious regional initiatives aimed at revitalising trade and investment across Member States. Among the key initiatives underscored were the development of a Regional Shipping Line and Renewable Energy projects within the maritime and port sectors.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the visitors expressed firm intentions to join PMAESA as Associate Members, recognising the Association’s pivotal role in advancing regional integration and sustainable maritime development.
The delegation was accompanied by Mr. Ramalingum Maistry, an international business strategist, who facilitated the engagement.