The 40th edition of the Association of Marine Underwriters of South Africa’s (AMUSA) Marine Forum was held in Kievits Kroon near Pretoria on 9-10 May 2025. The two-day event was packed with informative presentations on a wide range of topics such as project cargo, the safe shipping of electric vehicles and lithium-ion batteries, and the impact of inflation on underwriting. A unique presentation was given by Capt. Nick Sloane who shared first-hand insights into the stunning efforts undertaken by his team to recover the tall ship “Europa” which grounded in the port of Cape Town in 2023.
Hendrike Kühl had the opportunity to provide an update on IUMI’s current work and activities. The conference was extremely helpful to learn from the regional presenters about challenges specific to the marine insurance business in Africa. It was encouraging to see that many of the issues which keep marine insurers on their toes in the region are equally relevant in the global context of IUMI.
The anniversary edition of the Forum was extra-special, not least thanks to this year’s theme “Casino Royale”. The Organising Team comprising Mike Brews (Chair of IUMI’s Cargo Committee) and Paul March from Horizon Underwriting Managers, Adams Hilton Derek from Munich Re, and JP Liebenberg from Nautical Underwriting Managers arranged an outstanding programme for the 120 participants of the Forum. It was a wonderful occasion to connect with the South African marine market, to learn about the issues that keep marine insurers from the region busy, and to share the latest from IUMI. Congratulations to the Organising Team for a highly topical and fun anniversary event!
