A Defining Moment on the Swahili Coast
The Our Ocean Conference 2026, to be held in Mombasa and Kilifi County, marks a historic milestone as the first Our Ocean Conference hosted on African soil. For the Western Indian Ocean (WIO), this is more than a global gathering – it is a moment to bring regional priorities,
eadership, and solutions to the center of the global ocean agenda.
A Critical Moment for the Western Indian Ocean
The Western Indian Ocean is one of the most significant ocean regions in the world. Its coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass ecosystems support exceptional biodiversity while sustaining millions of people through fisheries, tourism, and coastal economies. These ecosystems also play a vital role in regulating the climate, protecting coastal areas, and storing blue carbon.
Yet the region is under increasing strain. Climate change, biodiversity loss, marine pollution, and unsustainable resource use are intensifying, while fragmented governance, limited financing, and gaps between science and policy continue to constrain effective action. This convergence of opportunity and pressure makes OOC 2026 a pivotal moment for the
region.
From Global Dialogue to Regional Delivery
The Our Ocean Conference has become a platform for moving beyond commitments toward concrete, measurable action. For the Western Indian Ocean, it provides an opportunity to:
- Elevate regional priorities within global ocean and climate agendas
- Mobilise investment in the sustainable blue economy
- Strengthen cooperation across shared and transboundary ecosystems
At its core, this is about accelerating delivery—ensuring that global ambitions translate into real change on the ground.
Strengthening Regional Leadership
The Western Indian Ocean has made important progress in advancing ocean governance, particularly through regional frameworks such as the Nairobi Convention. These efforts have strengthened collaboration, supported science-based decision-making, and expanded marine conservation.
OOC 2026 offers an opportunity to build on this foundation—positioning the region not only as a participant in global processes, but as a leader shaping solutions for sustainable ocean management.
WIOMSA’s Role
As the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA), we are committed to advancing a systems approach that connects science, policy, finance, and implementation. Through our work across the region, we support knowledge generation, capacity development, and partnerships that enable evidence based decision-making and effective ocean governance.
Looking Ahead
As we enter the second half of this critical decade for the ocean, the 2026 Our Ocean Conference represents a turning point.
For the Western Indian Ocean, this is a moment to move beyond ambition – to deliver coordinated, financed, and scalable action that secures a healthy ocean, resilient communities, and a sustainable future.
