Calls for a sustainable ocean reach a crescendo.
by Blue Africa News
Governments have been urged to reaffirm their obligation to safeguard the ocean and the communities that depend on it, by investing in resilient maritime industries, upholding the rights and safety of seafarers and fishers, and ensuring that the blue economy becomes a driver of inclusive and sustainable development.
In a statement during the World Maritime Day (WMD) marked on September 25, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres said the world’s economy sails on the strength of maritime trade, and on the dedication of the seafarers who keep it moving.
“This year’s World Maritime Day reminds us that the ocean is far more than a highway for commerce. It is a life force, feeding billions, regulating our climate, and sustaining biodiversity,” said the Portuguese diplomat.
“It is also a source of jobs, opportunity, and hope for millions of people. We must be steadfast in our commitment to the peaceful use of the ocean and to protecting this shared resource, through sound governance, sustainable practices, global cooperation, and respect for international law,” he added.
Commemorated under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” governments, NGOs and sector players celebrated achievements, however little, in tackling marine plastic pollution, protecting biodiversity and decarbonization.
The achievements, noted International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez, continue to provide solutions for the shipping industry which he added, carries over 80% of global trade and uses more ocean space than any other sector.
“IMO has, for many decades, worked to strike the right balance to ensure that the shipping industry is not the problem but the solution,” he said.
“Whether it is through international regulations to protect the environment and support seafarers, technical support to Member States, or bringing together all the key stakeholders – governments, industry, academia, civil society, we always find a way to global solutions.”
On her part, Jemilat Mahamah, chairperson of the Board of Director of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) said the theme for this year’s celebrations is a reminder of our shared responsibility in protecting marine ecosystems.
“While the maritime sector faces unprecedented challenges like climate change, marine pollution, and biodiversity loss, it is our duty to respond decisively in helping in protecting it,” she noted.
IMO established World Maritime Day in 1978, to recognize the vital role of the shipping industry in global trade, besides drawing global attention to issues of safety, security, and the marine environment.
Oliver Ochieng, Blue Africa News