Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding marine ecosystems while unlocking the economic potential of its ocean resources, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki calling for urgent global action to address growing threats facing the world’s oceans.
Speaking on behalf of President William Ruto during the official opening of the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa on Wednesday, Kindiki said Kenya is pursuing a balanced approach that promotes both environmental sustainability and economic empowerment for coastal communities.
“Oceans around the world are facing serious anthropogenic pressures arising from ecosystem degradation, pollution, and other harmful activities,” Kindiki said. “These challenges threaten biodiversity, livelihoods, food security, and the future of generations to come.”
Kenya Eyes Sustainable Blue Economy Growth
The Deputy President said the government is working to transform resources within Kenya’s section of the Indian Ocean into a catalyst for inclusive economic growth while ensuring environmental protection.
According to Kindiki, the Blue Economy remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s development strategy, offering opportunities in fisheries, maritime transport, tourism, renewable energy, and marine conservation.
“Kenya is working towards transforming the Indian Ocean resources within its jurisdiction to empower coastal communities and protect marine ecosystems for current and future generations,” he said.
He noted that sustainable management of marine resources is essential if countries are to continue benefiting from the economic opportunities provided by the oceans.
Call to Protect Future Generations
Kindiki emphasized the moral responsibility of current generations to preserve marine ecosystems for those who will inherit them.
“Our understanding of the responsibility of the current generation to the ocean is that we have borrowed it from our children,” he said. “We must return it to them better, cleaner, and safer.”
The Deputy President urged governments, development partners, researchers, and conservation organizations attending the conference to strengthen collaboration in addressing marine pollution, illegal exploitation of ocean resources, and climate-related threats.
He said the future of coastal economies depends on collective action to restore and protect ocean health.
Global Leaders Gather in Mombasa
The 11th Our Ocean Conference has brought together policymakers, scientists, environmental advocates, private sector leaders, and development partners from around the world to discuss solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing marine ecosystems.
The conference focuses on issues including ocean conservation, sustainable fisheries, marine pollution, climate resilience, maritime security, and the expansion of the Blue Economy.
Hosting the event places Kenya at the center of global conversations on ocean governance and environmental sustainability.
Kenya Strengthens Leadership in Ocean Conservation
Kindiki said Kenya remains committed to implementing policies that balance economic development with environmental stewardship.
He noted that protecting marine ecosystems is not only an environmental obligation but also an investment in livelihoods, food security, tourism, and long-term economic prosperity.
“As we seek to harness the immense opportunities presented by our oceans, we must remain guided by sustainability and the interests of future generations,” Kindiki said. “The decisions we make today will determine the condition of the oceans we leave behind tomorrow.”
The conference is expected to generate new commitments and partnerships aimed at accelerating global efforts to protect the world’s oceans while promoting sustainable economic growth for communities that depend on them.
