Delegates during the Ninth Session of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA) in Mombasa, on June 15, 2026. [Robert Menza, Standard]
The 11th Our Ocean Conference kicked off in Mombasa and Kilifi on Tuesday with African leaders, scientists and policymakers calling for urgent action to protect the continent's oceans from the rising impact of climate change, pollution and overfishing.
The participants warned that millions of livelihoods and coastal communities are at risk if decisive measures are not taken.
The call was made during the Ninth Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Sub-Commission for Africa and Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA), where representatives from 38 African member states gathered to discuss priorities for sustainable ocean management and the future of Africa's blue economy.
Speaking at the meeting, Vidar Helgesen, executive secretary of UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, said Africa's oceans are facing unprecedented pressures from climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and unsustainable fishing practices.
