Regional Ocean Governance Meeting - Swakopmund, Namibia

The meeting in Swakopmund has brought together key stakeholders from across Africa to discuss and shape the future of ocean governance. Delegates include representatives from African Regional Seas Conventions, Regional Economic Communities, UNEP’s Regional Office for Africa, and the Nairobi Convention, among others. Their mission: to harmonize efforts, share insights, and create a unified strategy for managing the ocean and coastal resources sustainably.

 

The meeting focuses on the Regional Ocean Governance Strategy (ROGS) for the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region, aligning it with the broader Continental Ocean Governance Strategy. This alignment is crucial for creating a cohesive approach to ocean management across the continent. The discussions delve into how these strategies can be implemented in harmony, drawing on the strengths and lessons of each to foster a sustainable blue economy.

 

Over the three days, participants will engage in a series of presentations, discussions, and group sessions. They will explore the socio-economic and environmental context of Africa’s oceans, review policy frameworks, and consider perspectives on integrated ocean governance from various regional bodies. These sessions are designed not only to build understanding but also to foster collaboration and innovation.

 

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The first day set the stage with opening remarks from distinguished speakers, including Timothy Andrew from the Nairobi Convention, and Ms. Annely Haiphene from Namibia’s Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources. Participants will review and discuss the draft African Ocean Governance Strategy, providing a foundation for the subsequent sessions.

 

Day two will feature perspectives from civil society, the private sector, academia, and other key stakeholder groups. These sessions aim to identify opportunities and challenges for implementing the governance strategies synergistically. The day will conclude with a discussion on related policy processes and windows of opportunity for further action.

 

The final day will focus on the practical aspects of financing and the steps needed to finalize and adopt the governance strategies. Insights from these discussions will help shape the future of ocean governance in Africa, ensuring that strategies are not only visionary but also actionable and sustainable.

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