The 4th edition of the Ocean Literacy Dialogues unfolded in Tanzania from November 4-5, 2023. It was co-hosted with the African Union and Regional Seas with African parties, in collaboration with UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission and the IOC Sub-Commission for Africa (IOCAFRICA) as well as UNESCO’s Dar es Salaam Field Office.
Sophia Laarissa, Ocean Literacy lead for ECOP Africa had the privilege of actively participating in the event, alongside colleagues from ECOP Africa, the Ocean Literacy Task Team (OLTT) of ECOP Africa, and distinguished individuals in the field.
Held in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, these dialogues provided a unique opportunity to connect, share, and learn from diverse perspectives and disciplines, fostering collaboration and networking. Interactions with individuals and representatives of communities and organizations revealed a rich tapestry of thoughts, insights, and experiences, leading to tangible outcomes such as specific projects and collaborations, including current efforts for the submission to the Call for Decade Actions No. 06/2023 under ECOP SIDS AFRICA coordination leadership.
Building on this momentum, in COP 28, the Ocean Pavilion once again emerged as a crucial platform for addressing pressing ocean-related issues on a global scale and within the African context. It served as a pivotal space, fostering discussions on key themes and initiatives while emphasizing the importance of concrete solutions and local best practices in promoting awareness and sustainable ocean management. The vital role of ocean literacy has also been underscored in tackling environmental challenges and emphasizing the importance of informed actions for sustainable ocean management.
In conclusion, the impact of the Ocean Pavilion at COP 28, along with the Ocean Literacy Dialogues in Dar es Salaam, resonates deeply. These experiences further inspire our team’s dedication to advancing ocean literacy and fostering collaboration, acknowledging that united efforts are essential in addressing the environmental challenges impacting our oceans.
Words by: Sophia Laarissa