The Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone F hosted a delegation from the European Union (EU) for the Gulf of Guinea Inter-Regional Network phase 2 (GoGIN II) project on 24 March 2026 as part of an evaluation mission to assess the project’s implementation and impact at national and regional levels.
A key highlight of the visit was the assessment of the Yaoundé Architecture Regional Information Sharing System (YARIS), which continues to serve as a vital platform for real-time information sharing and maritime coordination. While the system has significantly enhanced situational awareness and operational response, challenges such as intermittent connectivity, uneven data input, and the need for continuous technical support were noted.
The GoGIN II project was commended for its substantial contribution to strengthening maritime coordination and institutional capacity within the Gulf of Guinea. Through targeted training, technical support, and the provision of critical tools, the project has improved collaboration among maritime stakeholders and reinforced the implementation of the Yaoundé Architecture.
Despite these achievements, persistent maritime security concerns remain, including piracy, illegal fishing, and trafficking activities. These challenges highlight the need for sustained vigilance and enhanced regional cooperation.
The visit also identified key areas requiring further support, particularly in technical infrastructure, human capacity development, and organizational coordination. Continuous training, improved communication systems, and stronger inter-agency collaboration were emphasized as critical needs.