BACK
This year’s Maritime Week Africa offered a positive and forward looking view of how the region’s bunkering landscape is evolving. Across the discussions, it was clear that Africa remains a strategically important market, with steady demand for traditional fuels and growing interest in improving efficiency and competitiveness across the supply chain. For Peninsula, the week reinforced that trusted, well established suppliers continue to play a central role in shaping the region’s future.
Although the global shift towards alternative fuels continues, Africa’s transition remains gradual. Traditional bunkers still underpin most operational needs, giving suppliers a strong platform on which to build. For Peninsula, this stability highlights the continuing relevance of our offer, supported by our physical supply capability in Port Louis, Algoa Bay and Las Palmas, three locations that remain vital to regional and intercontinental shipping.
There was also discussion around how evolving trade routes may influence traffic volumes around the continent. While shifts are always possible, the broader takeaway was that African ports will remain an important part of global routing. Peninsula’s diverse supply footprint, spanning both the Atlantic and Indian Ocean sides of the continent, ensures strength and resilience no matter how demand patterns adjust.
Momentum in South Africa was another positive theme. While the market continues to mature, there’s a sense of optimism as industry stakeholders work towards improvements that will benefit suppliers and customers alike. Peninsula’s presence in Algoa Bay, paired with our consistent operational standards and global expertise, positions us well to support this evolution.
As part of a productive week on the ground, Peninsula also hosted a well received reception alongside our collaborators Linsen Nambi, a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships and deepen engagement with partners across the region.
Our role in the conference programme was equally meaningful. Jeroen de Vos, Head of Global Operations, spoke during Session 6, “The Fuel Supply Chain – Quality, Efficiency and the Energy Transition”, where he addressed fuel quality challenges from both global and African perspectives. His contribution resonated strongly with delegates, underscoring Peninsula’s commitment to raising standards and improving transparency across the supply chain.
Reflecting on the week, Piotr Dabrowski, Head of Physical Sales, noted that the conference offered an exceptional opportunity to reconnect with customers and industry partners from South Africa and beyond, remarking that it was “a valuable gathering, with representation from across the region and a strong turnout that made discussions both insightful and productive.”
Throughout the event, one theme was constant: Africa’s bunkering landscape is progressing, and suppliers who prioritise quality, service and innovation will be best placed to shape the next chapter. With our strategic physical hubs in Port Louis, Algoa Bay and Las Palmas, our strong operational track record, and our focus on customer partnerships, Peninsula is well positioned to continue leading and supporting our clients as the region’s maritime sector evolves.
