Developing a regional ocean governance strategy for the Western Indian Ocean Region

The Regional Ocean Governance Strategy (ROGS) support team formed a task force of 24 experts to enhance the development of the ROGS. Representatives from organizations such as the Nairobi Convention, African Union, and Indian Ocean Commission are included in the task force. The team has conducted participatory technical dialogues and information sessions to co-develop the strategy. The four main clusters of focus are maritime security, blue economy, environment and natural resources, and knowledge management and capacity building.

Topics covered in the sessions include the law of the sea, oil spills, marine pollution, marine protected areas, financing the strategy, and fisheries. The strategy aims to enhance maritime security, information sharing, collaborative fisheries management, and support for a sustainable blue economy. The draft ROGS will be presented in August 2024 at the eleventh Nairobi Convention Conference of Parties.

Lessons learned from the process include the importance of continuous capacities and providing effective feedback.

Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for effective regional ocean governance.

Implementation of the strategy will begin in the 2025-2028 Nairobi Convention Work Programme.