Clinton Consultancy – Maritime Case Studies Across Africa

Proven Results in Africa’s Major Maritime Hubs

Our maritime practice delivers rapid, practical solutions for shipowners, charterers, insurers, port operators, and offshore energy companies operating in African waters. These anonymised case studies show the breadth of our network and the impact of our expertise.

1. Urgent Vessel Release – West Africa

Jurisdiction: Tema, Ghana
Issue: A foreign-owned bulk carrier was detained over a disputed demurrage claim.
Our Role: Engaged directly with port authorities, customs, and the maritime regulator. Negotiated release terms while protecting the owner’s legal position for arbitration.
Outcome: Vessel released within 36 hours, avoiding significant charter penalties and cargo loss.

2. Multi-Jurisdiction Cargo Recovery

Jurisdictions: Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire) & Lagos (Nigeria)
Issue: Perishable goods in transit were held at two separate ports due to customs valuation disputes.
Our Role: Coordinated clearance processes simultaneously in both jurisdictions, using our direct contacts at customs and the respective port management companies.
Outcome: Cargo released in both locations within days, preserving commercial relationships and preventing spoilage.

3. Charter Party Dispute Resolution

Jurisdiction: Durban, South Africa
Issue: A time charter agreement dispute arose between a shipping company and a commodities trader, threatening to delay a high-value shipment.
Our Role: Represented the shipowner in negotiations, structured a settlement framework, and liaised with P&I Club representatives.
Outcome: Dispute resolved without litigation, shipment completed on schedule, and long-term charter relationship preserved.

4. Offshore Operations Licensing

Jurisdiction: Walvis Bay, Namibia
Issue: An offshore oil services company needed urgent licensing for a subsea operation to avoid costly downtime on a drilling contract.
Our Role: Secured fast-track regulatory approvals by engaging directly with the Ministry of Works and Transport and the Petroleum Commissioner’s office.
Outcome: Licences issued within one week, enabling project continuity and meeting client’s contractual obligations.

Why Clinton Consultancy

  • Pan-African Maritime Reach: Active in 20+ key African ports and shipping lanes.

  • Direct Access: Established relationships with port authorities, customs directors, and maritime regulators.

  • Rapid Response: Ability to mobilise local legal and operational support within hours.

  • Global Integration: Liaison with international maritime insurers, P&I Clubs, and arbitration centres.

  • Proven Track Record: From emergency vessel releases to complex multi-port disputes.

  • Confidential & Compliant: All interventions are conducted within the highest ethical and legal standards.

Email: amanda@clintonconsultancy.com (cc: info@clintonconsultancy.com)
WhatsApp/Call: +233 27 252 2695
Web: www.clintonconsultancy.com

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