BY DOMINIC PREUSS
THOUGH the seas off the East African coast have been plagued  by piracy it has became quite clear that good order at sea comprises much more than piracy.
Piracy, though, made an important contribution in raising maritime awareness in Africa in general. The debate on good order at sea is often underpinned by questions about whose interests are served by the safety and security of the maritime domain and who is benefiting from good order at sea.
The cost of transport, access to markets and instability in coastal states negatively influence many land-locked  countries in Africa. Consequently, good order at sea translates into economic growth and development for both coastal states and their landlocked neighbours.
Many African states still find it difficult to enforce their jurisdiction and assert sovereignty in their territorial waters. This is not only the result of a lack of naval capabilities and other maritime infrastructure.
Functioning national institutions are critical for the enforcement of jurisdictional, international maritime and national legislation. Enforcing jurisdiction in territorial waters requires a long-term commitment from governments and communities
Via: http://www.bdlive.co.za/
