The recent election of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho as global vice president of the United Nations Oceans Conference (UNOC 3) in France marks a significant diplomatic and environmental milestone.
Kenya takes centre stage in shaping international conversations on ocean health and the blue economy.
This milestone cements Kenya’s credibility in ocean governance, climate diplomacy, and advocacy for sustainable marine economies. It places Kenya in a unique position to influence global policy and investment decisions that directly impact coastal communities, marine ecosystems, and regional cooperation.
Kenya’s coastal and marine resources support millions of livelihoods, particularly in fisheries, tourism, and maritime transport. Yet, these ecosystems, especially coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, are under constant pressure.
By securing this leadership position, Kenya has a platform to influence decisions around funding, scientific research, and policy direction that could directly benefit its marine zones and those of the greater Western Indian Ocean region.
This is also a win for Africa, a continent often underrepresented in high-level environmental negotiations. Kenya is now uniquely positioned to drive a unified voice for African coastal states.
Issues such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, marine pollution, and equitable access to ocean-based climate financing can no longer be footnotes. They must be front and centre in global discussions.
The blue economy is projected to be worth more than $3 trillion globally by 2030. Kenya’s seat at this table should be leveraged to attract investment and partnerships for sustainable maritime development. From port infrastructure and shipping reforms to marine spatial planning and coastal tourism, this is a moment to pitch Kenya’s potential as a regional blue economy hub.
At home, this global recognition must also catalyse reform. Kenya must scale up its marine conservation efforts, invest in ocean science, and enhance the enforcement of maritime laws. Furthermore, inclusive stakeholder engagement, especially among coastal communities and Indigenous fisherfolk, must become a central tenet of any policy Kenya exports or adopts.
Kenya must use the opportunity to push for actionable outcomes at UNOC 3: a commitment to reducing plastic waste, a strong stance on ocean-based climate adaptation financing, and equitable blue growth for developing nations.
In the long run, this vice presidency could set the tone for how Kenya is viewed not just as a participant but as a shaper of global environmental policy. It’s a moment to navigate with ambition, integrity, and a clear strategy anchored in national interest and regional solidarity.
Kenya has now set sail on a global ocean voyage. The next challenge is to steer wisely and deliver boldly.
The writer is a climate action enthusiast and a communications specialist at Windward Communications Consultancy.
