Abstract

As Namibia implements the strategy of expanding its ports to achieve the strategic goal of becoming the regional logistics hub of choice, a clear and urgent need exists to upskill pilots. To that end, this article examines the Namibian law on pilotage in three areas: (i) the master– pilot relationship; (ii) the vicarious liability for pilot error; and (iii) the standards of training and certification of pilots. It does so having regard to case law, best practices of leading maritime nations and international standards. The article ends by recommending the urgent revision of the primary legislation and the regulations that govern the Namibian Ports Authority.