African Nations Advocate for High Seas Treaty Implementation at Our Ocean Conference

African and Commonwealth nations have urged the rapid implementation of a landmark treaty dedicated to the protection of the high seas. Despite numerous commitments to marine conservation, much of the world’s ocean protection remains theoretical. This call to action was voiced during the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, marking the first time an African nation hosted this significant annual event.

The conference concentrates on pivotal ocean issues such as climate change, biodiversity, and pollution. Delegates from various regions, including Africa, the United States, the European Union, and climate-vulnerable Caribbean and Pacific island nations, participated in discussions. Leaders aimed to promote Africa as a crucial contributor to global ocean governance.

Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry highlighted at the Commonwealth Ocean Ministers’ Roundtable that the High Seas Treaty, effective since January following ratification by 60 countries, signifies a historic shift. The treaty introduces a legal framework for establishing protected areas in international waters. However, Kerry emphasized the pace of progress is insufficient.

“We have 10% of the ocean under protection this year,” Kerry remarked. “That is worth marking. But only 3% is highly or fully protected, and the rest of the protections are, unfortunately, just lines on a map.”

Kerry noted the continued exploitation of oceans by industrial fishing fleets, with some operating far from their bases and using enormous nets that harm marine life indiscriminately. He urged countries to ratify the treaty if they haven’t, and to expedite its implementation, pointing out important decisions regarding the treaty’s future scheduled for next year.

The treaty, officially named the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction, aims to assist nations in reaching the global goal of safeguarding 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030. Kenyan Cabinet Secretary of Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho, stressed the need for governments to transition from promises to substantive action.

“The purpose of this roundtable is not to restate ambition, but to convert such pledges into measurable results for our communities, our economies and our oceans,” Joho stated.

Joho referenced the One Ocean Conference’s success since 2014 in generating over 2,900 commitments amounting to more than $169 billion. The challenge lies in translating these commitments into effective marine ecosystem management.

The Commonwealth’s 56 member states collectively oversee 36% of the world’s ocean jurisdiction and nearly half of its coral reefs, providing them with a unique role in safeguarding marine resources. Africa, on the other hand, is increasingly positioning itself as a leader in ocean conservation.

Kerry commended African nations for advancing transboundary marine protection and highlighted Gulf of Guinea countries committed to responsibly managing their waters by 2030. He noted that a region once seen as susceptible to ocean exploitation is now choosing to take leadership.

Kenya has implemented integrated coastal management plans, expanded marine protected areas, and increased efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Its 640-kilometer coastline and extensive exclusive economic zone play a vital role in supporting fisheries, tourism, and other sectors crucial to millions of people.

As negotiations proceed in Mombasa, delegates highlight the importance of the next few months in determining whether this new treaty will serve as a transformative instrument for ocean conservation or another unfulfilled international endeavor.

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