100 Youth Delegates join Historic 'Our Ocean Conference' in Mombasa

The Kenya Youth Transition Initiative (KYTI) has deployed 100 youth delegates to the 11th Our Ocean Conference (OOC11), as Kenya hosts the global summit in Africa for the first time.

The three-day conference, running from June 16 to 18 in Mombasa, brings together world leaders, scientists, private sector actors, conservation groups, and civil society organisations to shape commitments on ocean protection, sustainable fisheries, marine conservation, and the expansion of the blue economy.

For Kenya, hosting OOC11 places the country at the centre of global ocean governance discussions at a time when coastal economies are under pressure from climate change, overfishing, and rising demand for marine resources.

KYTI said the 100 delegates represent a deliberate push to integrate young people into policy spaces that have traditionally been dominated by state and industry actors.

The initiative credited the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs for supporting youth inclusion efforts, and acknowledged the role of its patron, Dr. Raymond Omollo, in advancing youth participation in national and international policy platforms.

KYTI delegate Faith Ken said the conference has reinforced the link between ocean health and everyday livelihoods.

“For us, ocean conservation is not just about protecting marine life. It is about securing jobs, food security, climate resilience, and a sustainable future for our communities,” she said.

She added that the ocean should be viewed as an interconnected system that directly affects Africa’s development trajectory.

“The ocean connects us all. Protecting it is not only an environmental responsibility but an investment in the dreams, livelihoods, and future of millions of young people across Africa and the world,” she said.

Faith Ken noted that youth participation is essential to shaping practical solutions.

“Protecting our ocean means protecting livelihoods, culture, food security, and creating decent opportunities for the next generation,” she said. “A sustainable ocean future depends on collaboration between young people, governments, communities, and development partners.”

KYTI said the delegation aims to ensure youth perspectives are reflected in discussions on sustainable blue economies, particularly as countries increasingly turn to ocean-based industries for economic growth, food security, and climate resilience.

Kenya’s hosting of the conference underscores growing global attention on Africa’s role in shaping the future of ocean governance and maritime sustainability.