The WIOMSA Scientific Symposium stands as the largest open scientific conference in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region, focusing on vital marine and coastal issues. This triennial event will provide a unique platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders.

“One Ocean, One Future: Connecting People, Policy, and Science for a Thriving Western Indian Ocean”

This theme emphasizes the unique opportunities and challenges facing the WIO in pursuit of sustainable ocean management. It envisions an interconnected blue economy that balances ecological health with socio-economic development, fostering collaborative efforts among scientists, policymakers, and communities.

Inspired by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) and the Ocean Decade Africa Roadmap, the theme is built on three dynamic pillars, designed to drive meaningful action and promote collaboration across the region: Science as a Foundation for Decision-Making, Policy as a Catalyst for Collaboration, Communities as Stewards of Sustainability.

These pillars are designed to drive impactful actions and foster collaboration across the WIO region and beyond.