News & Updates

Participants at the Eco ballroom during the opening session at the 13th WIOMSA Scientific Symposium

The 13th WIOMSA Scientific Symposium, held from September 28 to October 3, 2025, in Mombasa, Kenya, under the theme "One Ocean, One Future: Connecting People, Policy, and Science for a Thriving Western Indian Ocean," marked a pivotal moment for marine science and ocean sustainability in the region. Nearly 1,400 participants gathered to foster dialogue and collaboration among scientists, policymakers, private sector actors, civil society, Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs), and coastal communities.

The symposium resulted in major agreements to strengthen regional cooperation, boost ocean science initiatives, and implement action points targeting marine pollution reduction and climate change mitigation. These commitments underscore the symposium’s critical role in advancing sustainability in the Western Indian Ocean.

The event’s thematic areas focused on the nine priorities of the Ocean Decade Africa Roadmap. As a key partner, the UNESCO-IOC Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA) reinforced its crucial role in promoting ocean science, building regional partnerships, and supporting the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).

A Call to Bold and Practical Science

Mr. Ibukun Adewumi, Head of the IOCAFRICA Secretariat, delivered a compelling opening speech stressing the urgency of taking action, developing capacities, and enhancing collaboration across sectors.

Mr. Ibukun Adewumi, Head of IOCAFRICA Secretariat

 “We are the first generation to truly see the size of the ocean crisis, and maybe the last to fix it.” He stated.

He emphasized that IOCAFRICA will continue collaborating with like-minded partners to achieve not only a healthy and resilient ocean but also one that is productive, predictable, inspiring, and engaging. His message highlighted IOCAFRICA’s commitment to promoting ocean sciences and advancing blue economy strategies at the national, regional, and global levels.

During the official opening, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for the State Department of Blue Economy and Fisheries, Hon. Betsy Muthoni Njagi, CBS, stressed that “science without policy is powerless, and policy without science is empty,” urging leadership to address pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity.

Meeting between The WIOMSA 2025 Scientific Symposium organizing partners and Principal Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, Betsy Njagi.

Additionally, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Science, Research, and Innovation, reinforced the need for the “socialization of science,” ensuring knowledge benefits all stakeholders. Scientists were encouraged to think creatively and blend modern science with traditional local knowledge. Mr. Paul Orina, Director General of KMFRI, advocated for “science unusual”—innovative, community-focused research delivering practical solutions.

IOCAFRICA Special Sessions

IOCAFRICA held two dynamic and insightful Special Sessions during the Symposium. In collaboration with the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), the session titled “The UN Decade of Ocean Science: Milestones and Gaps in Bridging the Science–Policy–Society Interface in Africa” showcased the role of National Decade Committees (NDCs) as essential structures for implementing the Ocean Decade, while also highlighting ongoing initiatives in the region that contribute to translating science into policy and society.

Mr. Ibukun Adewumi addressing the participants at our special sessions

Juana Jimenez of the Belgian NDC emphasized that NDCs must be multistakeholder platforms including government, private sector, academia, and communities. Christina Kibuta highlighted the importance of national policies to combat marine plastic pollution, while Naya Sena stressed co-designing solutions with coastal communities to build trust.

In the second panel, Aina Le Don lauded the Strengthening Sea Level Monitoring and Data Management in East Africa for Coastal Resilience and Community Safety (SEAMARCS) project as an initiative which ensures that ocean observation services serve the communities by enhancing coastal resilience in Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique and Seychelles. 

Clara Vives discussed the Blue Capacity Development (BlueCAD) Project, which strengthens ECOPs' skills through training and workshops. Kevin Lunzalu outlined East Africa Wildlife Society’s (EAWLS) contributions to marine conservation, including the Blue Carbon Ecosystems Conservation Project and advocacy for Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs).

In the end, participants were grouped into three groups representing policy, science and society where they outlined bold visions and pathways that will enhance the connections for the three groups by 2030.

    Group 1: Policy                                                            Group 2: Science                                                          Group 3: Society 

The second Special Session, “Shaping Africa’s Ocean Future: Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs)’ Voices for Policy Action,” showcased how African ECOPs are leading efforts to achieve the Africa Roadmap’s nine priorities. Participants agreed that ECOPs should be fully integrated into decision-making rather than included only to meet requirements. Senior scientists were urged to mentor ECOPs as the region’s current and future ocean leaders.

Early Career Ocean Professionals pose for a group photo

Working Together for Change

The symposium concluded by highlighting strong partnerships between IOCAFRICA and regional collaborators, demonstrating how collective action can address marine challenges in the Western Indian Ocean and wider Africa. Leaders called for increased funding, enhanced cross-border cooperation, and faster translation of ideas into action. The closing message of #WIOMSA2025 was one of hope, innovation, and unity, paving the way for Africa’s Ocean to become a beacon of resilience and prosperity for generations to come.

For years, UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA), and the Government of South Africa have worked hand-in-hand to advance ocean science, education, and sustainable development across the continent. From regional capacity-building initiatives to high-level policy dialogues, this partnership has consistently championed Africa’s leadership in marine research and governance.

This enduring relationship was once again brought to life through SEAmester VIII, South Africa’s flagship “floating classroom” programme. Hosted aboard the S.A. Agulhas II, a world-class research vessel operated by the South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the Eighth edition of the SEAmester offers a unique opportunity for students and scientists to learn, collaborate, and conduct research in the open ocean.

With IOCAFRICA’s support, a cohort of African beneficiaries joined this year’s voyage from 17 to 27 June 2025, gaining hands-on experience in marine science while building lasting networks across the continent.

Immersive Learning that Transforms

SEAmester is more than a training programme, it’s a transformative experience that blends academic instruction with real-world application. Participants engage in lectures, fieldwork, and collaborative projects, all while navigating the open ocean aboard a fully equipped research vessel.

For Dortea Hamukoto, a master’s student from the University of Namibia, the voyage was a gateway to discovery.

I got hands-on experience learning to collect and observe zooplankton, including tiny creatures like copepods, using microscopes and scientific tools. I also learnt to test dissolved oxygen in water samples, a completely new and exciting skill for me.

Beyond technical skills, SEAmester fosters personal growth and professional development.

It wasn’t just about learning but also sharing. I strengthened my presentation skills, worked on a group project about chlorophyll A concentrations, and most importantly, I made friends, connections, and memories that will stay with me forever. Thanks to UNESCO’s support, the ocean has opened up to me in ways I will never see the same again.”

Bridging Research and Regional Collaboration

For experienced scientists like Dr. Muthumbi, Senior Lecturer in Marine Biology at the University of Nairobi, SEAmester offered a rare opportunity to engage with deep-sea research in real time and observe the full cycle of marine data collection and analysis.

The sheer size of the vessel, the facilities it has, and the kind of research it can do amazed me. When I first stepped on board, I felt like I was in a hotel, but it was actually a floating classroom. Watching how samples were collected, analyzed, and used in research was invaluable. We were able to do deep-sea research I would never have experienced otherwise.

She also acknowledged IOCAFRICA’s role in facilitating her participation. “They were very useful in organizing my expedition, supporting me with logistics, and negotiating my position to be able to get onto the vessel.”

Through its continued support for SEAmester and similar initiatives, IOCAFRICA is helping to equip the next generation of African ocean professionals with the skills, networks, and confidence they need to lead.

Students, scientists, anyone interested in marine science, there are many chances out there,” Dr. Muthumbi urged. “Especially with the UN Decade of Ocean Science, I just want to encourage them to look out, apply, and not give up.

SEAmester VIII is a testament to what long-standing partnerships can achieve. It aligns closely with the goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), which calls for inclusive, innovative, and transformative approaches to ocean knowledge. As the Ocean Decade unfolds, IOCAFRICA remains committed to creating opportunities for African ECOPs, whether on land or at sea. Through initiatives like SEAmester, the organization continues to build capacity, foster collaboration, and inspire the next generation of ocean leaders.

• The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (UNESCO-IOC)
• More on UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA)

SCOR is pleased to announce that the next Regional Graduate Network in Oceanography (RGNO), a SCOR-supported cooperative research and capacity building initiative, will take place from 29 September to 17 October 2025 at the University of Namibia’s Sam Nujoma Marine Research Center in Henties Bay and Namibia’s National Marine Information and Research Center in Swakopmund, Namibia.

The RGNO is a research-driven, intense learning experience in the biogeosciences of the Benguela Current Ecosystem (BCE), a particularly interesting ocean habitat. Participation is most valuable for people who are actively involved in an ongoing research project to which the course topics can contribute and who would like to apply their skills to a better understanding of the BCE. Participants will have opportunity to work at sea on the R/V Mirabilis as well as conduct laboratory analysis.

The course is for dedicated early career researchers with an international perspective and who care about the Ocean: PhD candidates and honors MSc students majoring in one of the natural science fields, professors, and young scientists holding an equivalent degree with specialization in oceanography.

More details: https://lnkd.in/duFusGq3

The Training of Trainers for African marine and coastal biosphere reserve managers provided a valuable platform for knowledge and experience sharing among representatives from various biosphere reserves. Held in Zanzibar, Tanzania, from March 11-13, 2025, the training aimed to equip managers with  essential skills including but not limited to capacity building, community engagement, partnership, communication and resource mobilisation to bolster the utilization of biosphere reserves as hubs for ocean literacy,  and foster collaboration and benefit-sharing with local communities.

Building strategic partnerships

One of the significant outcomes of the training was the establishment of important collaborations, such as the partnership between the Western Indian Ocean Marine Protected Areas Network (WIOMPAN) and the Marine Protected Areas Network of West Africa (RAMPAO). Such collaborations are expected to enhance the collective capacity of biosphere reserves across Africa in addressing conservation challenges.

Biosphere reserves

 UNESCO designated biosphere reserves  are important sites that are effectively used as living laboratories for sustainable development. They include terrestrial, marine and coastal ecosystems, and serve as critical areas for enhancing understanding of the interactions between social and ecological systems. They provide a framework for studying and addressing key issues such as biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, ecosystem services, indigenous knowledge and sustainable livelihoods.

 There are 759 designated biosphere reserves globally, covering approximately 5% of the world’s surface. In Africa, there are 93 biosphere reserves across 33 countries. Only about 23 of these are marine and coastal biosphere reserves.

Representation and UNESCO’s collaboration

Managers from 20 marine and coastal biosphere reserves across nine African countries (Benin, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritania, Senegal,  South Africa and Tanzania)  participated in the training, which was spearheaded by the UNESCO-IOC Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA), the Natural Science Sector of the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, the UNESCO Dar es Salaam Office, and the UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office for West Africa in Dakar.

Classroom Lectures: Laying the Foundation

During the first two days of the training (March 11-12), participants attended classroom lectures covering:

• Introduction to UNESCO biosphere reserves, their goals, functions, and designation processes.
• The ecological and socio-economic importance of marine biosphere reserves and harnessing economic opportunities.
• Promoting marine biosphere reserves as ocean literacy hubs.
• The role of biosphere reserves in achieving global targets, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Targets, and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Opening Address by Mr. Zahor Kassim Elkharousy

In his opening address, Mr. Zahor Kassim Elkharousy, Zanzibar's Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Blue Economy and Fisheries, highlighted the importance of UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserves as learning and socio-economic hubs. He commended UNESCO’s partnership with the United Republic of Tanzania and emphasized Zanzibar’s deep connection with the ocean, describing it as an ocean community that heavily relies on marine ecosystems for livelihoods.

“Zanzibar is honored to host this training, and I sincerely thank UNESCO/IOC for choosing this remarkable location. Here, you will not only gain valuable knowledge but also witness first-hand the unique conservation and management efforts in place.” - Mr. Zahor Kassim Elkharousy, Deputy Permanent Secretary Blue Economy and Fisheries, Zanzibar

Field and Community Visit at Jozani-Chwaka Bay Marine Biosphere Reserve

On the third day, participants visited the Jozani-Chwaka Bay Marine Biosphere Reserve to gain practical exposure to various conservation efforts, including:

• Zonation of biosphere reserves.
• Community-led management practices.
• Community enterprises focused on socio-economic enhancement and gender mainstreaming.

The participants visited the Na Sisi Pia Tupo Cooperative in Bweeju village, learning about seaweed farming and value addition to produce cosmetic products and nutritional supplements. They also explored a mangrove restoration project that combines conservation with eco-tourism through boardwalks, enhancing community socio-economic resilience. Additionally, a sea turtle conservation and rehabilitation initiative within the biosphere was showcased.

The training has been a great learning experience for me. I was not informed that we could do seaweed farming and manufacture products that can improve the livelihoods of our communities. These exchanges and interactions among Africans should be continuously facilitated as they offer an opportunity to replicate best practices from the different regions.
- Dr. Ogoudje Isidore, Ag. Executive Secretary RAMPAO

Moving Forward

The three-day training was highly impactful. As a concrete outcome, participants developed action plans for replicating the training in their respective regions and practical activities for implementing the actions outlined in the Venice Declaration for Ocean Literacy in Action.

The Eighth Session of the UNESCO-IOC Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA) was held from 7–9 May 2025 in the historic coastal city of Mombasa, Kenya. The session brought together representatives from IOCAFRICA Member States, international partners, and intergovernmental organizations to review the implementation of the 2024–2025 biennial workplan, formulate the upcoming 2026–2027 workplan, and elect new IOCAFRICA officers.

UNESCO-IOC advances ‘fit-for-purpose’ ocean science in Africa

Delegates from 13 Member States, along with global partners, participated in the highly productive meeting. Notably, Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) and Assistant Director-General of UNESCO, addressed the session. He underscored the importance of robust financial frameworks in addressing global challenges and reaffirmed UNESCO-IOC’s commitment to promoting transformative ocean science. Mr. Helgesen emphasized the organization's priorities in ocean observation, data and information management, conservation, sustainable development, and the blue economy. He also highlighted the necessity of effective partnerships in achieving the objectives of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).

We are pleased to announce that the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI), with the support of Partnership for the Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO), the Nippon Foundation (NF), the University of Galway and Chair of Climate Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, will conduct its fifth training expedition on board its icebreaker RV Polarstern, Germany's largest research vessel. 

We are offering 20 training scholarships and, for the first time, 5 scholarships for junior teachers.

The NoSoAT (North-South Atlantic Transect) OceanCapX (Ocean Capacity Exchange) expedition will depart on 20 November from Bremerhaven, Germany. Arrival in Walvis Bay, Namibia, is scheduled for 17 December 2025. A one-day pre-cruise workshop will be included.

During the latitudinal transect, participants will be trained in advanced techniques of oceanographic, meteorological and climate observation and analysis. They will learn how to take and process samples with standard sampling procedures (CTD Rosette 25l Niskin bottles, Underway CTD Profiler (towed), Plankton nets, FerryBox, Thermosalinography, xBTs) and handle the associated data. Causes of natural climate variability and anthropogenic climate change will be discussed in the context of international climate negotiations, as well as ocean governance and its implications for research at sea.
The data collected during the cruise will become part of an established data series on the North-South (NoSoAT) and South-North (SoNoAT) transits of the icebreaker RV Polarstern.

All 25 successful scholars will be divided into five groups. These groups of five will rotate through all topics during the cruise, so that by the end of the cruise each scholar has been through all teachers and topics.

Please apply until 15 March 2025

SOURCE: https://www.awi.de/en/about-us/sites/helgoland/guest-research/training-capacityexchange-helgoland-sylt/nosoat.html

This manual aims to foster, facilitate, and support NGO participation in the Ocean Decade. It provides clear guidelines for navigating the Ocean Decade’s coordination and engagement frameworks to identify partnership opportunities, as well as a structured approach for project development and implementation. Through case studies of endorsed Decade Actions, the Manual demonstrates the impact of NGOs in producing and communicating science and knowledge across society, thereby inspiring action from local to global.

The Ocean Decade fosters collaboration across society to advance ocean science, sustainable development, and ocean literacy. NGOs play a key role in bridging science, policy, and society, contributing to inclusive and actionable solutions.

Through participation, they gain access to networks, resources, and opportunities to amplify their impact globally. This publication is a direct product of cooperation between the NGO-UNESCO Liaison Office and UNESCO-IOC since 2022. The manual will be presented next Wednesday (18 December) during the 2024 International Conference of NGOs at headquarters.

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