African and Commonwealth nations are urging the rapid implementation of a significant treaty aimed at protecting the high seas. They have highlighted that despite numerous commitments to ocean conservation, substantial protective measures remain merely theoretical. This appeal was made during the 11th Our Ocean Conference, hosted for the first time by an African nation in Mombasa. The event concentrated on pivotal ocean issues like climate change, biodiversity, and pollution.
The conference welcomed hundreds of participants from Africa, the United States, the European Union, and vulnerable Caribbean and Pacific island nations. Leaders aim to position Africa as a key player in global ocean governance. Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, speaking at the Commonwealth Ocean Ministers’ Roundtable, highlighted the High Seas Treaty. This treaty, effective since January after ratification by 60 countries, is a landmark legal framework for establishing protected areas in international waters. Kerry emphasized the slow pace of progress.
“We have 10% of the ocean under protection this year,” Kerry stated. “However, only 3% is highly or fully protected, with the rest only marked on maps.”
Kerry noted the persistent exploitation of oceans by industrial fishing fleets, including distant vessels using large nets that capture all marine life indiscriminately. He urged countries to ratify and swiftly implement the treaty, as crucial decisions are expected next year. The treaty, known as the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction, supports the global goal of protecting 30% of land and oceans by 2030.
Hassan Joho, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Maritime Affairs, called for a transition from promises to tangible actions. He stated, “This roundtable is about transforming pledges into measurable outcomes for communities, economies, and oceans.” Joho highlighted over 2,900 pledges, amounting to more than $169 billion, made at the One Ocean Conference since 2014, emphasizing the need for effective management of marine ecosystems.
The Commonwealth’s 56 member states hold 36% of the world’s ocean jurisdiction and nearly half of its coral reefs. This bestows a unique responsibility on the bloc to protect marine resources. Africa is ascending as a leader in ocean conservation. Kerry commended African countries for advocating cross-border marine protection, citing commitments by eight Gulf of Guinea nations to manage all their waters sustainably by 2030.
He stated, “A region previously seen as a victim of ocean exploitation is now taking a leading role.” Kenya has adopted integrated coastal management plans, expanded marine protected areas, and enhanced efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. With its 640-kilometer coastline and extensive exclusive economic zone, fisheries, tourism, and other industries thrive, supporting millions of livelihoods.
As discussions progress in Mombasa, delegates affirm that the upcoming months will be vital in defining whether the new treaty becomes a catalyst for marine conservation or ends as another set of unmet international promises.
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