The Regional Organization for the Conservation of the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (PERSGA), in cooperation with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), organized a subregional workshop aimed at strengthening preparedness and response systems for major marine pollution incidents involving oil and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) spills. The event was held at the Emergency Mutual Aid Centre (EMARSGA) in Hurghada, Egypt, from 5 to 8 May 2025.

The workshop brought together 18 officials and technical experts from Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and Yemen. The training aimed to enhance national capacities, reinforce coordination mechanisms, and support the development of robust contingency planning frameworks for marine pollution emergencies in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region.

As one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors, the Red Sea is increasingly exposed to risks of marine pollution resulting from shipping incidents, particularly in the context of ongoing maritime incidents. In light of these challenges, the workshop focused on equipping national represented authorities with the knowledge and tools needed to manage and mitigate pollution events effectively and in a coordinated manner at a strategic level.

Experts from PERSGA and IMO led a series of technical sessions covering key topics such as oil spill prevention, emergency response strategies, incident management, and inter-agency coordination. A key feature of the workshop was the use of real-life case studies—namely the incidents involving the MV RUBYMAR, MV SOUNION, and ASL BAUHINIA—which served to illustrate the complex nature of pollution incidents in high-risk maritime environments and the importance of timely and coordinated responses.

Participants also engaged in practical tabletop exercises simulating major spill scenarios, enabling them to apply best practices and test response frameworks in a collaborative setting. These exercises facilitated peer learning and highlighted the importance of harmonizing national efforts within a regional response structure.

The workshop was hosted by EMARSGA and delivered through IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP), with technical support and coordination from PERSGA. It forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regional cooperation and build national capacities for effective marine pollution preparedness and response.

At the conclusion of the workshop, participants received certificates of participation and supporting materials. Feedback collected from participants indicated a high level of satisfaction with the content, delivery, and relevance of the training to their operational responsibilities.

This capacity-building initiative is expected to contribute to enhanced inter-agency coordination, improved national and regional contingency planning, and strengthened readiness to address oil and HNS spill incidents in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.