The African Lifter plays a crucial role in supporting offshore construction, modification, and maintenance activities by providing essential infrastructure. Its flat-bottom design makes it particularly well-suited for operations in calm waters, such as those found off the coasts of Africa, the Middle East, and other similar regions. The barge can also serve as a laydown area, offering additional workspace during offshore projects.

Typically catenary anchored, the African Lifter is moored in benign waters and, in some cases, positioned alongside offshore platforms. A gangway is used to connect the barge to the platform, ensuring the safe transfer of personnel between the two structures.