Fifteen national governments today adopted the Mombasa Declaration at the 11th Our Ocean Conference. This declaration commits these nations to advancing global fisheries transparency and strengthening efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The Mombasa Declaration serves as a clear call to action for coastal and flag States. It focuses on improving the collection and spread of vessel information and increasing access to important fisheries data. This initiative directly supports the Global Charter for Fisheries Transparency, which offers 10 practical policy principles for governments worldwide.
This declaration fits into Ghana's broader economic strategy of protecting its vital marine resources and supporting food security. Ghana, heavily reliant on fish for its animal protein, faces significant threats from IUU fishing. This practice undermines local livelihoods and distorts the fishing market.
Hon. Emelia Arthur, Ghana's Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, highlighted the critical role of fisheries in Ghana. She stated, "Sixty percent of our animal protein comes from fish, and ten percent of our population depends on the fisheries value chain for livelihood." Minister Arthur expressed Ghana’s commitment, noting the declaration provides a platform for international cooperation in fighting for transparency.
Future actions will include signatory countries implementing the Declaration by modernizing vessel registries and publishing fishing authorizations. These measures aim to strengthen enforcement and accountability across all fisheries sectors. This launch also begins a campaign to encourage more nations to join before the next Our Ocean Conference in 2027.
Experts estimate IUU fishing costs the global economy up to $50 billion every year. This massive loss disproportionately affects legitimate fishers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. These illegal activities deplete fish stocks, threaten food security, and are often linked to human rights abuses like harsh working conditions.
Limited transparency in vessel ownership, tracking, and fishing activity allows these harmful practices to continue. The Mombasa Declaration directly addresses these gaps by requiring improved access to reliable fisheries data and stronger accountability mechanisms. Such reforms are crucial for protecting marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on healthy oceans.
Maisie Pigeon, director of the Coalition for Fisheries Transparency, emphasized the global nature of this commitment. She noted that the diverse group of signatory countries shows a worldwide push for transparency at sea. This collective effort aims to establish a productive and sustainable "blue economy" built on effective monitoring and accessible data.
The Declaration also highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating these complex issues. France, represented by Madame Catherine Chabaud, Minister Delegate for the Sea and Fishery, also voiced strong support. She stated, "We will not be able to effectively combat IUU fishing without greater transparency and international cooperation." This unified stance provides hope for more robust ocean governance globally.
The economic implications for Ghana are substantial. Protecting its fisheries means safeguarding the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people and a critical food source. Enhanced transparency can lead to better managed fish stocks, ensuring long-term sustainability and economic stability for coastal regions.