MOMBASA, Kenya, June 17, 2026 — Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is slated to preside over the opening ceremony of the 11th Edition of the Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa.
The conference will focus on six critical areas: marine protected areas, sustainable blue economy, climate change, maritime security, sustainable fisheries, and marine pollution. Since its inception, the forum has generated more than 2,600 commitments valued at over $160 billion, making it one of the most impactful global gatherings dedicated to ocean sustainability.
Speaking ahead of the conference, Tom Pickerell, Head of the Ocean Panel Secretariat and Global Director of the World Resources Institute’s Ocean Program, praised Kenya’s leadership in ocean conservation.
“Kenya has long been an advocate and leader on ocean issues — as an active member of the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel), the host of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and a pioneer in ambitious policies to tackle plastic pollution and foster a sustainable ocean economy,” said Pickerell.
The conference is expected to highlight innovative solutions and partnerships aimed at protecting marine ecosystems while promoting sustainable economic growth through responsible use of ocean resources.
Later in the day, Deputy President Kindiki is scheduled to preside over the Global Observance of Desertification and Drought Day in Vipingo, Kilifi County.
This year’s event is being marked in partnership with the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) under the theme, “Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore.”
