By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
President William Ruto has challenged world leaders, development partners, investors, and environmental stakeholders to move beyond promises and deliver tangible action following the conclusion of the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, President Ruto emphasized that the future of the world’s oceans depends not on declarations and commitments alone, but on concrete implementation, innovation, and investment.
“As we bring the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa to a close, we must translate promises into tangible action. The health of our oceans will not be secured by declarations alone,” said President Ruto.
The Head of State called for bold and innovative approaches to mobilizing financial resources, leveraging technology, strengthening institutional capacity, and accelerating the implementation of commitments made during the conference.
Ruto stressed that the true success of the conference would not be measured by the pledges announced during the gathering but by the real impact achieved in protecting marine ecosystems, supporting coastal communities, and growing sustainable ocean-based industries.
“Let the true measure of this conference not be what we pledged on the shore, but what we deliver in the water,” he stated.
In a major commitment, Kenya pledged to fully implement all 50 commitments made during the conference as part of its ambitious strategy to grow and protect its blue economy, currently valued at more than $1.1 billion (approximately KSh142 billion).
The President reaffirmed Kenya’s readiness to lead by example in advancing ocean conservation, climate resilience, sustainable fisheries, marine biodiversity protection, and blue economy development.
He also expressed gratitude to international delegates, partners, and stakeholders for their collaboration and dedication to safeguarding the world’s oceans.
President Ruto further invited visitors and investors to explore Kenya’s vast opportunities, highlighting the country’s welcoming people, rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and growing investment potential.
The successful hosting of the 11th Our Ocean Conference has strengthened Kenya’s position as a leading voice in global ocean governance and sustainable blue economy development.
