Why We Celebrate World Ocean Day on June 8
Every year on June 8, the world comes together to observe World Ocean Day—a day dedicated to recognizing the crucial role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. Originally proposed during the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio and officially recognized by the United Nations in 2008, the day urges global action to protect our oceans and combat climate change.
2025 Theme: “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”
The theme for World Ocean Day 2025—“Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”—reminds us that oceans are not just vital for food, energy, and trade, but also inspire and connect us emotionally and spiritually. This year, the call to action is especially directed at policymakers, urging them to preserve the ocean’s natural wonder while making crucial decisions.
Driving Awareness, Inspiring Action
From plastic pollution to overfishing, human activities continue to endanger marine life. World Ocean Day acts as a catalyst for raising awareness and mobilizing global citizens towards sustainable ocean governance.
In East Africa’s IGAD region, ocean protection isn’t just a concept—it’s a concrete commitment.
IGAD’s Blue Economy Strategy: A Model for Sustainability
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is leading the charge with its Blue Economy Strategy, developed under its Agriculture and Environment Division. The initiative covers the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Indian Ocean, aligning closely with national strategies of Member States like Kenya, Djibouti, and Somalia.
Innovation + Sustainability = Resilient Oceans
IGAD’s approach is integrated and future-focused. It aims to modernize traditional marine sectors like fisheries and maritime transport while investing in marine renewable energy, biotechnology, and sustainable tourism.
Member States are proving that economic growth can coexist with marine conservation, thanks to:
- Innovative financing
- Coordinated policy frameworks
- Inclusive governance models
- Ecosystem-based marine management
Spotlight: Djibouti’s Fight Against Plastic Pollution
One standout initiative is Djibouti’s battle against plastic waste. IGAD has supported awareness campaigns, beach clean-ups, and the distribution of eco-friendly materials such as reusable bags and informative banners.
With rising population pressures and coastal urbanization, these efforts are crucial for safeguarding marine ecosystems and public health.
Empowering Communities: Women & Youth at the Forefront
True sustainability starts at the grassroots. IGAD is equipping women and youth with training and tools to become local champions of ocean conservation. These programs foster:
- Environmental education
- Community leadership
- Grassroots advocacy
- Behavioural change initiatives
Global Goals, Regional Impact: Aligning with the KM-GBF
IGAD supports Member States in achieving the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF). One of its bold targets is to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. IGAD is helping the region achieve this through:
- Workshops on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
- Regional coordination for conservation zones
- Strengthening marine biodiversity data systems
From Nice to Nairobi: Africa’s Ocean Leadership Moment
As the world prepares for the UN Ocean Conference 2025 in Nice, France (June 9–13), eyes are already turning to Africa. In 2026, Kenya will host the 4th UN Ocean Conference, becoming the first African country to do so.
This is more than symbolic—it’s a historic opportunity to:
- Accelerate the blue economy agenda
- Advocate for ocean-climate resilience
- Push for sustainable fisheries and pollution control
- Promote marine security and protected areas
World Ocean Day 2025 is a reminder that the ocean is not just a resource—but a source of life, wonder, and inspiration. Through regional cooperation and strong leadership, IGAD and its Member States are proving that sustainable marine development is not only necessary—but possible.
Let’s honour the ocean by sustaining what sustains us—today, and for generations to come.
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