Kenya to host 11th edition of Our Ocean Conference in 2026

Kenya has been selected to host 11th edition of Our Ocean Conference in 2026 as a result of the exemplary global leadership the country has shown in environmental and ocean issues.

In a statement on his X handle, President William Ruto said the conference will be an opportunity for Kenya to highlight the blue economy agenda and champion Africa’s climate action on oceans.

“The conference, therefore, will be an apt opportunity for Kenya to highlight our blue economy agenda and champion Africa’s climate action on oceans, especially in the Indian Ocean which is a shared resource among 23 countries.” Stated President Ruto.

Kenya is also a pioneer in national policies that tackle ocean pollution.

The President noted that the United States Secretary of State John Kerry, expressed strong support for Kenya’s leadership who affirmed his commitment to the conference.

“He mentioned that he had a telephone conversation with the former United States Secretary of State John Kerry, who is also a founder of Our Ocean Conference.” He said, adding that “He expressed his support for Kenya hosting the conference.”

The Our Ocean Conference focuses on addressing the key ocean issues including climate change, biodiversity loss, food security and pollution.

The annual conference convenes governments, NGOs, the private sector and the academic community to identify action-based solutions and make tangible commitments.

The conference is a crucial moment for the ocean community year-after-year, gathering lessons learned, sharing the best science, offering unique perspectives, and demonstrating effective actions toward protecting and improving the health of the ocean.