Sustainable ocean governance has become an increasingly important global priority as nations seek to balance maritime security, environmental conservation, and the economic opportunities presented by the blue economy. Recognising that healthy oceans are fundamental to global prosperity, international cooperation remains critical in addressing emerging maritime challenges while ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources for future generations.
These priorities were at the forefront of the 11th Our Ocean Conference (OOC11), which concluded in Mombasa County after bringing together global leaders, policymakers, scientists, maritime experts, and stakeholders under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future.” The landmark event, the first Our Ocean Conference to be hosted on the African continent, provided a significant platform for advancing global dialogue on ocean conservation, maritime security, and sustainable blue economy development.
The conference was officially closed by President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, Dr. William Samoei Ruto, who reaffirmed Kenya’s dedication to ocean conservation, sustainable blue economy development, and strengthened international cooperation in safeguarding the world’s oceans. He commended delegates and stakeholders for their contributions and called for sustained collective action to ensure that oceans remain healthy, secure, and productive for present and future generations.
Speaking during the conference, Cabinet Secretary for Defence Hon. Soipan Tuya underscored the need for collective action in addressing emerging challenges within the maritime domain. She reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to strengthening maritime security through enhanced inter-agency coordination, improved information sharing, and active participation in regional and international maritime security frameworks.
“In the face of evolving threats in the Western Indian Ocean, such as piracy, illicit trafficking, illegal fishing among others, Kenya is pleased to announce its commitments in strengthening maritime security through advanced inter-agency coordination, improved information sharing and active participation in both regional and international maritime security frameworks,” she said.
As a key maritime security institution, the Kenya Navy played a central role in supporting the conference’s objectives through its continued efforts to safeguard Kenya’s territorial waters, secure maritime trade routes, combat illegal fishing and transnational maritime crimes, and strengthen regional maritime cooperation. The conference further elevated Kenya’s profile as a maritime nation and showcased the Kenya Navy’s growing contribution to international maritime security initiatives.
Earlier, during a panel discussion, Deputy Commander Kenya Navy Brigadier John Sankale Kiswaa highlighted the progress made in enhancing maritime domain awareness through improved surveillance capabilities, strengthened regional information-sharing mechanisms, and increased cooperation among maritime stakeholders. He noted that collaborative approaches remain essential in addressing both traditional and emerging threats within the maritime environment.
The conference provided an opportunity for participants to explore innovative solutions to pressing ocean-related challenges, including marine pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, illegal exploitation of marine resources, and maritime insecurity. Discussions reinforced the growing recognition that maritime security and ocean conservation are mutually reinforcing pillars of sustainable ocean governance.
Kenya’s participation demonstrated its commitment to promoting secure and sustainable oceans while advancing responsible stewardship of marine resources. Through the Kenya Defence Forces and maritime agencies, the country continues to contribute to regional and global efforts aimed at ensuring safe seas, resilient coastal communities, and sustainable economic growth driven by the blue economy.
The successful conclusion of the conference marked an important milestone for Kenya and Africa’s maritime sector, reinforcing the continent’s growing role in shaping global ocean governance while highlighting the critical link between maritime security, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development.
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