Key facts
- African and Commonwealth nations are urging the swift implementation of the High Seas Treaty.
- The call was made at the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya.
- Only 3% of the world's ocean protection is highly or fully protected, according to John Kerry.
- The High Seas Treaty aims to protect 30% of the world's land and oceans by 2030.
- The Commonwealth's member states have significant responsibility due to their vast ocean jurisdiction.
African and Commonwealth nations are pressing for the rapid implementation of a landmark treaty designed to protect the high seas, expressing concern that despite significant commitments to marine conservation, much of the world's ocean protection remains largely on paper. The call to action was issued at the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, marking the first time an African nation has hosted the event focused on critical ocean issues like climate change, biodiversity, and pollution.
Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry highlighted the High Seas Treaty, which became effective in January 2026 after ratification by 60 countries, as a historic step creating a legal framework for protected areas in international waters. However, he cautioned that progress is too slow, noting that while 10% of the ocean is currently under protection, only 3% is highly or fully protected, with the rest existing merely as "lines on a map." Kerry urged countries to ratify and implement the treaty, as key decisions are anticipated next year.
Kenyan Cabinet Secretary of Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho stressed the need for governments to move from promises to tangible actions, aiming to convert pledges into measurable results. Since 2014, the One Ocean Conference has generated over 2,900 pledges valued at more than $169 billion, but the challenge lies in their effective management of marine ecosystems.
The Commonwealth's 56 member states, collectively managing 36% of the world's ocean jurisdiction and nearly half of its coral reefs, hold a significant responsibility in marine resource protection. Africa is increasingly positioning itself as a leader in ocean conservation, with eight Gulf of Guinea nations committing to sustainably manage their waters by 2030. Kerry commended these nations for championing transboundary marine protection and leading in ocean stewardship.
Kenya itself has implemented integrated coastal management plans, expanded marine protected areas, and intensified efforts against illegal fishing. Its extensive coastline and exclusive economic zone are vital for fisheries, tourism, and millions of livelihoods. Delegates at the Mombasa conference view the coming months as critical for determining the treaty's effectiveness as a transformative tool for ocean conservation.