Last week marked an important milestone for Community Action for Nature Conservation (CANCO) as we joined global leaders, practitioners, and ocean champions at the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya.
We were proud to support 8 community representatives from Shella, Marereni, Kichwa Cha Kati, Mwaembe, Mnarani, and Kilifi Central Beach Management Units (BMUs), as well as the Sokoke Community Forest Association, to participate in this global platform and amplify the voices of coastal communities.
Through our exhibition booth, we showcased the incredible work being undertaken by communities along the Kenyan coast to promote sustainable fisheries, ecosystem conservation, and resilient coastal livelihoods. The exhibition provided an opportunity to share lessons, innovations, and community-led solutions that are contributing to healthier oceans and stronger local economies.
We were also honored to make a floor announcement during the Sustainable Fisheries Plenary on 18th June, where we announced CANCO’s commitment on “Advancing Community-Led Ocean Governance and Sustainable Fisheries in Coastal Kenya.” This commitment recognizes the critical role that coastal communities play in fisheries governance and calls for greater inclusion, equitable access to resources, and support for sustainable livelihood opportunities.
As we reflect on the conference, one message stands out clearly: healthy oceans depend on empowered communities. We remain committed to ensuring that the voices, knowledge, and priorities of coastal communities continue to shape the future of ocean governance and sustainable fisheries management.
A big thank you to all our partners, community representatives, and stakeholders who made this journey possible.
