Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to global efforts aimed at conserving the ocean and promoting sustainable marine practices. This was at the opening of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference taking place in Nice, France, from 9th to 13th June 2025.
The event, which coincides with the commemoration of World Oceans Day, is being co-hosted by France and Costa Rica under the theme: “Accelerating Action and Mobilizing All Actors to Conserve and Sustainably Use the Ocean.”
A high-level Ghanaian delegation is attending the conference, led by the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur. The delegation also includes the Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs, Godfred Seidu Jasaw; Vice Chairman, Kwame Dzudzoli Gakpey; and Ranking Member, Isaac Yaw Opoku.
The presence of Ghana at the global conference underscores the country’s ongoing efforts to protect marine ecosystems, ensure sustainable fisheries, and promote a resilient blue economy in line with national and international commitments.
The Conference and Global Ocean Agenda
The United Nations Ocean Conference serves as a key platform for advancing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, which relates to the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. The 2025 edition is expected to galvanize political will and accelerate the implementation of SDG 14 by:
- Promoting urgent and concrete actions
- Strengthening global cooperation
- Encouraging inclusive participation from governments, UN agencies, academia, civil society, and the private sector
- Identifying progress and challenges in achieving ocean sustainability
World Leaders Call for Urgent Action
Speaking at the opening ceremony, French President Emmanuel Macron called for united global action to protect marine life, describing it as a “moral responsibility.” He stressed the importance of science-led, multilateral approaches and reiterated support for the 30×30 target—an international goal to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.
Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles also addressed delegates, highlighting the indispensable role of oceans in sustaining life. He cautioned against inaction, stating, “Vision without action is just hallucination.”
Ghana’s Leadership in Ocean Governance
Ghana’s active involvement in the conference is in line with its broader commitment to sustainable ocean governance across the African continent. As a coastal nation, Ghana recognizes the crucial importance of healthy oceans in securing food, livelihoods, and resilience for its population.
Throughout the conference, the Ghanaian delegation will participate in plenary discussions, technical meetings, and side events. These engagements are expected to facilitate knowledge exchange, strengthen diplomatic ties, and foster partnerships aimed at enhancing marine conservation and promoting the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The Conference continues until Friday, 13th June 2025.
