President Ruto Presides Over Closing of Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa

President William Ruto is presiding over the closing ceremony of the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa. Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya welcomed the head of state as the landmark event wraps up on African soil.

The conference, hosted at the Tembo International Convention Center in Shanzu, brought together leaders, experts and activists under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future.” It marks the first time the gathering is taking place on the continent.

Yesterday, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki represented the government at the opening. He spoke about pressures facing marine ecosystems and Kenya’s commitment to sustainable management of Indian Ocean resources.

Participants adopted the Mombasa Declaration. Around 14 to 15 countries signed the document aimed at enhancing fisheries transparency and combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

Hollywood actress Kate Walsh attended as an Oceana ambassador. She met local fishers and urged decision-makers to place coastal communities at the centre of ocean policies.

Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority exhibited at the conference. The body highlighted its work on green hydrogen and low-carbon solutions that support ocean health and climate goals.

For Kenya’s construction industry the discussions hold direct relevance. Ports expansion, coastal roads, tourism infrastructure and marine projects must navigate stricter environmental standards. Healthy oceans reduce risks for shoreline developments and support the blue economy.

John Kerry, former US Secretary of State, called for accelerated progress on the 30 by 30 marine protection target and ratification of the High Seas Treaty. Activists including Greenpeace Africa staged demonstrations calling for concrete action.

The event builds on previous conferences that generated thousands of pledges. Turning commitments into measurable outcomes remains the central challenge for participating nations.

Ruto’s presence at the close underscores Kenya’s ambition to lead regional ocean governance. Outcomes could influence policies shaping future infrastructure work along the coast.

Construction stakeholders will watch implementation of the Mombasa Declaration. It may affect permitting, environmental impact assessments and community engagement on waterfront sites.