MOMBASA, KENYA (June 18, 2026) – Nine African governments announced new commitments to ocean protection this week at the 11th Our Ocean Conference (OOC11) in Mombasa, Kenya, marking concrete progress toward the global goal of effectively and equitably protecting 30 percent of the world's ocean ecosystems by 2030. The announcements – spanning newly gazetted marine protected areas (MPAs), national conservation strategies, new planning frameworks, and commitments to develop new MPAs – signal a shift from pledge to action across the continent.

"WCS works across Africa as a partner, convener, and technical advisor for many of the countries that presented commitments this week at Our Ocean. What we presented is the result of years of work by governments and communities to translate ambition into action. It’s a celebration of these efforts and an opportunity to build momentum and learn from the many positive examples from the continent," said Dr. Jean Mensa, Marine Program Director at WCS Tanzania. "Each of these announcements reflects a different stage of the conservation process, and together they demonstrate what sustained, collaborative effort can achieve."

Tanzania formalized two significant milestones. The North-East and South-East Marine Conservation Areas off Pemba, Zanzibar – committed to at last year's UN Ocean Conference – have now been officially gazetted, together spanning 1,300 km² of mixed-use zones, including climate-resilient coral reefs and an Important Shark and Ray Area. 

Tanzania also committed to begin the process of designating Kilwa MPA, a proposed area of between 1,000 and 2,500 km² that would protect 180 km² of climate-resilient coral reefs, an Important Shark and Ray Area, and an Important Marine Mammal Area. Management would have positive spillover effects for up to 150,000 people across 30 communities, including those surrounding Kilwa Kisiwani, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Mozambique presented its plans for a National Marine Conservation Strategy, an ambitious, long-term framework for area-based ocean protection. The country reaffirmed its plan to advance the strategy, move it through final review, and progress towards implementation.

Madagascar committed to converting five MPAs – Sorkay, Tandavandriva Nosy Be, Ria i Androy (Atimo Vatae), Baie de Diego, and Mer d'Émeraude – from temporary to permanent status, with gazettement anticipated by 2028. Together the areas span 13,890 km², protect climate-resilient coral reefs, two Important Marine Mammal Areas, two Important Shark and Ray Areas, and would benefit more than 230,000 people. The project is a joint effort of committed partners and stakeholders, under the leadership of the Ministry of the Environment and Sustainable Development.

Kenya committed to finalizing the country’s draft marine conservation, restoration, and governance regulations. The regulations will include provisions for the recognition and support of community-led Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs), among other mechanisms, providing a clear pathway towards the 30x30 goal through inclusive conservation efforts.

Gabon announced the launch of a marine spatial planning process aimed at achieving 30 percent ocean protection by 2027, to be supported by a blue bond financing mechanism.

“Coastal African communities rely on often dwindling natural resources,” said Tanguy Nicolas, Africa Marine Technical Specialist for Fauna & Flora. “Governments must balance conservation, economic growth, and climate change. The solution must put local communities at the centre, letting them manage coastal ecosystems and benefit economically. The WIO OECM policy brief offers a clear way to make this happen.”

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