“One Ocean, One Future: Connecting People, Policy, and Science for a Thriving Western Indian Ocean””
This theme underscores the unique opportunities and challenges facing the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region in its pursuit of sustainable ocean management. It envisions an interconnected blue economy that harmonizes ecological health with socio-economic development, facilitated through collaborative efforts among scientists, policymakers, and communities. The theme is structured around three interconnected pillars:
The WIO region’s marine ecosystems are among the richest and most diverse globally, yet they face significant threats from climate change, overexploitation, and habitat degradation. This pillar underscores the critical role of research and innovation in understanding and managing these ecosystems.
Key Focus Areas:
Given the numerous countries in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region, regional cooperation is essential for achieving sustainable ocean governance. Effective policies must be informed by scientific research and grounded in practical solutions to address common challenges such as Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate resilience, and sustainable fisheries management.
Strengthening Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems:
Enhance early warning systems to protect vulnerable coastal communities from threats such as extreme weather events and natural disasters.
Developing Harmonized Governance Frameworks:
Create and implement governance frameworks that are consistent across the region and aligned with global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Supporting Area-Based Management Systems:
Promote national and regional initiatives to establish and enhance area-based management systems, including Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs). Focus on creating a connected network of these areas and improving their management effectiveness.
Coastal communities in the WIO region depend on marine resources for their livelihoods, cultural identity, and resilience to climate impacts. Engaging these communities as active participants and custodians of marine conservation is essential for success.
Promoting regional ocean literacy programs to enhance public understanding of ocean health and its connection to human well-being.
Supporting community-led initiatives that integrate traditional knowledge with modern science.
Strengthening local capacity to engage in marine resource planning and management, ensuring equity and inclusivity in decision-making.