BMA Hosts Technical Seminars in London

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) recently hosted two technical seminars in London for its Recognised Organisations (ROs) and inspectors. The seminars provided a platform to review key regulatory developments, share operational updates, and reinforce the BMA’s commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement across the Bahamas-flagged fleet.

Stephen Keenan, Senior Deputy Director, and Captain Dwain Hutchinson, Managing Director and CEO of the BMA, opened the seminar with remarks and updates from their respective positions, setting the tone for three days of constructive discussions.

Sessions featured updates on mutual recognition mechanisms among ROs, changes to the Bahamas Merchant Shipping Act (MSA), and developments under MARPOL Annex VI ahead of the upcoming IMO MEPC session, presented by Captain Ghulam Hussain, Deputy Director of Maritime Affairs.

Technical presentations covered survey challenges, pre-authorised and remote survey procedures (MN08 and MN96), and a comprehensive Port State Control (PSC) review covering 2022–2024 and year-to-date 2025. Further sessions included an accident investigation update by Nick Dowden, Deputy Director & Marine Investigator, as well as Seafarer and Manning matters, including STCW and MLC updates, presented by Captain Kapila Malawwethanthri.

Each day concluded with an open Q&A session and closing remarks, underscoring the value of shared expertise in supporting safety, compliance, and quality service.

The BMA extends its appreciation to all participants for their continued cooperation and contributions. The Authority looks forward to ongoing engagement with its partners as part of its mission to uphold the highest standards of safety and excellence across the global maritime sector.