Latest news with #WorldHydrographyDay
IOL News
22-06-2025
- General
- IOL News
SA Navy concludes World Hydrography Day with a commitment to maritime cooperation
Navy chiefs unite for maritime security at World Hydrography Day celebrations Image: SANDF/South African Navy The South African Navy has wrapped up its celebrations for World Hydrography Day in East London, marking a week of public engagements, ship tours, panel discussions, and ceremonial events. Central to these festivities was showcasing hydrography's vital role in maritime safety, environmental protection, and sustainable economic growth, all under the theme 'Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action.' A key highlight was the Declaration of Intent, signed by 15 naval chiefs across Africa, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Egypt, and South Africa, outlining 11 shared maritime priorities to bolster security and cooperation. Throughout the week, naval vessels docked at the Port of East London, allowing residents to explore the Navy's technical capabilities firsthand. The programme also included a panel discussion and hydrography lecture at the Premier Hotel ICC, followed by a cocktail event and book launch aboard the SAS Amatola. During the cocktail reception, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, Chief of the South African Navy, emphasised hydrography's critical importance across various sectors. 'Hydrography plays a foundational role in our maritime security and economic activities. As a nation bordered by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, South Africa depends heavily on its Navy to facilitate trade, defend our sovereignty, monitor maritime borders, and manage ocean resources. 'Hydrography enables safe navigation, supports search and rescue operations, and helps us better understand our vast oceanic territories.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ He further explained that accurate hydrographic data is essential for determining secure shipping routes and combating maritime threats such as piracy and illicit fishing, especially as global sea traffic has increased by 74% year-on-year due to instability in the Red Sea and Suez Canal. Highlighting the broader strategic context, Vice Admiral Lobese noted that hydrography is an international obligation and a key driver of the blue economy, Africa's ocean-based economic development. The Navy also used the occasion to share outcomes from the 5th Sea Power for Africa Symposium, a high-level gathering of naval chiefs, academics, and maritime security experts from over 30 countries. As the continent's only Pan-African maritime forum, the symposium addressed pressing issues such as resilience in security strategies and responses to hotspots, including the Red Sea. A significant outcome of the symposium was the signing of the Declaration of Intent, a commitment by 15 African naval chiefs to prioritise 11 shared maritime objectives, fostering greater security and cooperation across the continent. Vice Admiral Lobese described this as a renewed commitment to collaborative progress, with plans to review developments at the next Sea Power symposium. The event also featured the launch of a new publication, which compiles 15 papers from the symposium. 'The publication was inspired by Nelson Mandela's words describing the sea as 'a vital national interest,' said Vice Admiral Lobese.
Biz Bahrain
22-06-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
SLRB to enhance maritime surveying with advanced digital technology
Marking World Hydrography Day, Bassim bin Yaqoub Al Hamer, President of the Survey and Land Registration Bureau (SLRB), highlighted Bahrain's efforts to advance maritime surveying through modern digital technologies. He noted that hydrographic surveying supports maritime safety, coastal development, and sustainable marine resource use, adding that expanding national capacity in this field reinforces Bahrain's role as a regional maritime hub. During a site visit to the national survey vessel project, Al Hamer described the initiative as a strategic investment in marine sustainability and safety, with the vessel set to feature advanced sensors and 3D seabed mapping for precise data on marine sand resources. The Hydrographic Department supports national goals by updating navigational charts, identifying safe routes, and strengthening collaboration with the International Hydrographic Organisation in line with Bahrain's development and environmental priorities. It also monitors coastal and seabed changes, supports ecosystem protection, and provides essential data for infrastructure projects such as subsea cables, pipelines, and offshore wind farms, helping to reduce environmental impact. The department contributes to sea level studies through accurate, long term tidal and depth data that inform climate models and help safeguard coastal assets. Recent efforts include issuing updated charts and tide tables, delivering high resolution data for infrastructure projects, and building national capacity through specialised training and international cooperation. BNA(R)
Observer
21-06-2025
- General
- Observer
World Hydrography Day — Oman committed to navigational safety
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by Oman National Hydrographic Office, marked the World Hydrography Day (WHD), which falls on June 21 of each year. This year's celebration is held under the theme 'Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action' with the aim of highlighting the importance of hydrographic data in promoting environmental and economic development and achieving ocean sustainability. The Sultanate of Oman joined the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in 1989 and the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea in 1999 and has since then shown a great commitment to providing hydrographic services to the international community. The National Hydrographic Survey Authority was established in September 1992. The following month, the Sultanate of Oman joined the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). In April 1995, the Oman National Hydrographic Office was established with the aim of producing nautical charts and marine products as well as carrying out surveys to ensure maximum navigational safety. While marking the 2025 World Hydrography Day, the Sultanate of Oman reaffirmed its commitment in developing its national capabilities, enhancing regional and international cooperation, contributing to the shared goals of protecting the seas and enabling their responsible and sustainable use for present and future generations. — ONA
IOL News
21-06-2025
- General
- IOL News
World Hydrography Day: South African Navy highlights the importance of oceans mapping
Understanding Hydrography: South African Navy's Commitment to Ocean Mapping Image: SANDF/South African Navy The South African Navy commemorated World Hydrography Day, recognising the critical role of hydrography in safe navigation, maritime security, and environmental protection Held in East London from Friday, the event aimed to raise awareness of hydrography's vital role in maritime security, sustainable development, and ocean governance. Vice Admiral Monde Lobeise, the Chief of the South African Navy, opened the event by posing a thought-provoking question: "What has brought us together here today in East London?" He explained that the answer is "World Hydrography Day," dedicated to celebrating the crucial yet often overlooked science of mapping the seas and oceans. He said that the term 'hydrography' remains unfamiliar to many because hydrographic surveyors' work typically occurs in remote offshore areas, away from the public eye. 'If you're not on a survey platform, you don't see the equipment or the processes involved in transforming raw data into valuable maritime information,' he said. While he chose not to delve into the technical details, he highlighted that the event aimed to make hydrography more accessible to the public, especially young people. "Our goal is to inspire the youth to consider careers in the maritime sector, whether in the private or public domain, by showcasing the science and its significance," he said. Attendees had the opportunity to visit the Navy's vessels berthed in the harbor, including the flagship frigate SAS Amatola, and the newest Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels, SAS King Shaka Zulu and SAS Adam Kok III. The Survey Motor Boat (SMB1) was critical. It was a purpose-built vessel essential in conducting hydrographic surveys aligned with national charting needs. The Vice Admiral explained that World Hydrography Day was established in 2005 by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO), a UN-supported body. It is observed annually on June 21st, marking the organisation's founding. The day is a global platform to raise awareness about hydrography's role in understanding the oceans and seas. This year's theme, "Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action," underscores the importance of ocean floor mapping in achieving sustainable use of marine resources. He stated that only approximately 26.1% of the ocean floor has been charted with modern precision, revealing vast gaps in our knowledge of the world's oceans. He highlighted that seabed mapping underpins critical industries such as shipping, fisheries, coastal tourism, and renewable energy, adding that it also supports environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate change monitoring. The Vice Admiral discussed international projects like Seabed 2030, a collaborative effort to map the entire ocean floor by 2030, and the strategic importance of hydrographic data in enhancing maritime security. He stressed that investing in a dedicated survey ship for the South African Navy-currently under construction-will bolster the country's ability to monitor and manage its vast maritime domain. 'Having our survey vessel is not just about technology; it's about safeguarding our waters, supporting regional cooperation, and asserting our presence as a maritime nation,' he said. 'It will improve operational safety, facilitate international collaboration, and demonstrate our commitment to a secure and sustainable ocean environment.' In concluding his speech, Vice Admiral Lobeise urged all stakeholders-government, industry, research institutions, and the private sector-to work together.
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Canada Leads the Way in Innovation for Safer Maritime Navigation
OTTAWA, ON, June 17, 2025 /CNW/ - Safe and reliable navigation of waterways is necessary for global trade and transportation, making accurate and accessible marine data essential. That's why the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS), under Fisheries and Oceans Canada, is taking a leading role in validating new digital hydrographic standards. Today, the Minister of Fisheries, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, announced the launch of the S-100 Sea Trials on the St. Lawrence River. The S-100 data model is a new global standard created by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), which offers a new way of visualizing the marine environment using layered, interactive digital data that can be added to navigational charts. Unlike traditional paper or electronic charts, the new standard integrates real-time information – like depths, landmarks, tides, and currents into a single, dynamic format. Until November 2025, Canada is offering S-100 digital navigation products and services free of charge to mariners, stakeholders, developers and other interested parties to test performance in real-life scenarios. The complex conditions of the St. Lawrence River, such as varying water depths, changing currents and navigational aids, position it as an ideal testing ground, and will provide invaluable insights for S-100's future adoption across global waters. Canada's leadership in hosting the S-100 Sea Trials will advance the global transition toward consistent and reliable digital hydrographic standards. International adoption of these standards will allow mariners to enhance maritime safety, better route navigation and planning, and transportation efficiency which will reduce costs and contribute to a cleaner environment and ocean. Quotes "As a country surrounded by three oceans, we are proud to be a leader in cutting-edge digital navigational services which will hold mariner safety, ocean health, and Canada's maritime trade to the highest standard. The S-100 Sea Trials will help lead us to a more efficient and safer marine environment for all users, from remote communities to large commercial operators around the globe." The Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries Quick Facts Hydrography is the science of studying, measuring and charting the physical features of bodies of water, such as oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers. It is critical for safe navigation of marine travel. It is celebrated annually during World Hydrography Day on June 21st. The S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model (S-100) is a universal set of guidelines and definitions for designing and maintaining hydrographic geospatial products and services. It is the new international standard developed by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) to ensure consistency in maritime products and services. The Canada Hydrographic Service is contributing several important navigational products and services within the IHO suite of products to help modernize navigation in Canadian waters. The IHO has planned a phased rollout of the S-100 navigational information starting in January 2026. Under the leadership of the Canadian Hydrographic Service, the S-100 Sea Trials are a collaborative effort also involving the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG), Teledyne Geospatial, Electronic Chart Centre (ECC) and PRIMAR. Mariners, stakeholders, developers and other parties operating on the St. Lawrence River who are interested in participating in these trials can register via the event website hosted by the Canadian Integrated Ocean Observing System. Associated Links DFO Science Story – From Static to Dynamic: S-100 and the Future of Maritime Navigation VIDEO – Seabed Mapping: A Navigational Breakthrough? S-100 Products and services S-100 Products specification glossary Stay Connected Follow the Fisheries and Oceans Canada on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Follow the Canadian Coast Guard on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada View original content:
