Latest news with #SDG14
The Star
31-07-2025
- General
- The Star
Building coastal resilience with nature-based solutions
THE marine and coastal areas of Malaysia, which are home to diverse ecosystems — from coral reefs to mangrove forests — are currently under threat due to climate change. Rising sea levels, changing temperatures and increased storm intensity reinforce the importance of building coastal resilience to ensure that coastal ecosystems, particularly mangrove wetlands and the communities they support continue to thrive. 'Coastal resilience is the ability of coastal systems, encompassing the environment, infrastructures and communities, to participate, absorb, recover from and adapt to adverse events such as coastal erosion, storm surges and sea level rises. 'It's not just about withstanding disasters, but also about bouncing back stronger,' says Dr Teh Hee Min, senior lecturer at the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department of Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP). 'From a community's perspective, coastal resilience is vital because it safeguards lives, homes and heritage. 'Many of these communities depend on coastal resources for their daily survival, cultural identity and economic resilience,' he says, adding that a robust coastline is also key to protecting critical infrastructures like ports, fisheries and tourism assets. He points out that floods and erosion on coastal areas especially can have a long-term ripple effect on local and even national economies. 'These ecosystems are natural buffers against extreme events and contribute to carbon sequestration and biodiversity. 'So, in essence, coastal resilience is about securing a future where human development and natural systems coexist and support one another,' he emphasises. At UTP, coastal resilience projects led by Teh focus on integrating innovative engineering technologies with ecological awareness and community empowerment. The Tanjung Kepah Mangrove Action Project in Perak, for example, exemplifies UTP's research and consultancy ethos of leveraging the university's cutting-edge research and multidisciplinary expertise to address pressing sustainability challenges. The project solutions directly support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely SDG 13 (climate action), SDG 14 (life below water) and SDG 15 (life on land), aiding in the country achieving its sustainability targets. The project, led by UTP and Wetlands International, is a collaboration with the Irrigation and Drainage Department, Manjung, National Water Research Institute of Malaysia (Nahrim), Parak Forestry Department, Solmax and Pertubuhan Sahabat Hutan Bakau Lekir. The project site at Tanjung Kepah, as its name suggests, was once a prolific mud clam (kepah) production site, but over the years, yields have dropped because of the loss of mangrove forests, which served as barriers against storm surges. Furthermore, replanting efforts over the years also failed because the tender saplings did not stand a chance against the strong sea waves. At its heart, the project is a coastal defence system composed of an offshore 25-metre bamboo wave screen, the first of its kind in Malaysia. Completed in November 2024, the screen has received thumbs-up from various stakeholders. Recently planted mangrove saplings – now sheltered from waves – are seeing a survivability rate of 70%, a remarkable feat as mangrove planting in the open sea garnering a 30% survivability rate is usually considered marvellous, says Teh. He points out that because this is a nature-based solution, the lifespan of the bamboo screen is about three years, by which time the mangrove forest should have grown enough to play its role as a natural defence against storms and strong waves. A 25-meter bamboo wave screen was constructed at Tanjung Kepah to protect newly planted mangrove saplings and reduce wave impact on the hinterland. What's more, the remains of the bamboo structure will also serve as nurseries or dwellings for marine life. Buoyed by the success of the first phase of this project, the plan is to construct another screen, this time further afield in the open sea. Installation of the 30-metre screen is expected to commence in August. Apart from the sites in Perak, UTP's project partner Wetlands International also plans to deploy this technology at a site in Sungai Haji Dorani in Selangor. 'This project at Tanjung Kepah is built around three key pillars, namely, nature-based coastal restoration, multi-stakeholder partnership and community engagement and empowerment,' says Teh, adding that the bamboo used is sourced via a collaboration with SEAD Build, a proponent of sustainable bamboo agroforestry in Malaysia. Apart from the project at Tanjung Kepah, UTP previously undertook another coastal resilience project at Teluk Nipah in Pulau Pangkor, which stemmed from a UTP study revealing that the sandy beach was eroding at a rate of up to three metres a year due to continuous degradation of the shoreline by waves. To gauge the awareness level of the coastal problems in Teluk Nipah among the local community, UTP organised two community engagement sessions in August 2019 and January 2022. The town hall sessions enabled communities in Teluk Nipah and Pulau Pangkor to share their concerns and pain points on coastal problems with local authorities and the need for erosion control measures. Teh, who led the project, explains that UTP designed a 50-metre rock revetment at the beach in Teluk Nipah, which was constructed at the end of 2020. The university also proposed to the authorities a soft approach to mitigate erosion and replenish the existing shoreline through beach nourishment. Final year UTP Civil Engineering students enrolled in the elective course Design of Coastal Structures conducting field measurements of alongshore sediment transport along the shoreline of Teluk Nipah. Nurturing innovation For Teh, being part of the UTP ecosystem has been instrumental in the success of the projects at Tanjung Kepah and Teluk Nipah. 'Here, interdisciplinary knowledge sharing, access to cutting-edge research facilities and institutional support come together to nurture innovation,' he says. He adds that the research also benefited greatly from being part of UTP's Water-Energy-Environment Nexus, which brings together experts in hydrology, botany, environmental engineering and social sciences. 'This allowed for more holistic project planning. UTP's strong emphasis on industry and community engagement also opened doors for funding and collaborations, which enabled us to involve the local communities in Tanjung Kepah and train them in the monitoring and maintenance of the bamboo wave screen.' Beyond research projects, these were real-world initiatives that empowered communities directly impacted by coastal erosion, he adds. 'Building coastal resilience isn't just an engineering challenge, it's a human one. The shoreline is where science meets society. 'The greatest success comes from when we design with the people and nature in mind. Interventions when rooted in local knowledge supported by research and powered by collaborations, can create meaningful, lasting impact. 'More than stopping erosion, it's about restoring dignity to coastal communities and preserving the ecosystem for future generations,' Teh concludes. For more information and enquiries on coastal resilience, email programmeoffice@
Mid East Info
22-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Abu Dhabi spotlights global marine conservation leadership at UN sustainable development forum - Middle East Business News and Information
EAD highlights the emirate's SDG14 progress through environmental innovation and science-led solutions. Abu Dhabi,July 2025: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi EAD showcased Abu Dhabi's global leadership in marine conservation and sustainability at the 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), as part of the UAE's official delegation. Held at the UN headquarters in New York from 14 to 23 July, the HLPF is a central platform for reviewing the progress of the 2030 Agenda. In collaboration with the UAE Government Experience Exchange Office GEEO, and the UAE SDG Secretariat, Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD and Vice Chair of the Global Council on SDG14, participated in a series of high-level sessions advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on SDG 14: Life Below Water . Her participation reflects the UAE's commitment in accelerating the 2030 SDGs and its role in building global consensus on sustainable development to enhance global stability and prosperity. Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri attended the official opening of the UAE Exhibition, which spotlighted the country's progress across priority SDGs. She presented Abu Dhabi's contributions in marine habitat restoration and environmental innovation, including its leadership in global platforms such as the Mangrove Alliance for Climate and the upcoming IUCN World Conservation Congress taking place in Abu Dhabi in October 2025. During the official SDG14 plenary session, Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri delivered a keynote statement, outlining Abu Dhabi's transformative achievements in marine conservation, blue carbon innovation, and sustainable fisheries governance. 'In the UAE, we have made SDG14 a national priority – a commitment grounded in science, backed by policy, and enabled by finance,' she said. 'Abu Dhabi serves as a prime example of what's possible. We are restoring critical blue carbon ecosystems, from mangroves to seagrass meadows, and we've launched the world's largest coral rehabilitation initiative, targeting over four million coral colonies by 2030'. Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri also highlighted Abu Dhabi's marine biodiversity efforts, including safeguarding the world's second-largest dugong population of 3,500 individuals, monitoring over 7,900 sea turtles, and deploying environmental DNA and AI-powered tools to map species health. She also highlighted the emirate's success in raising the Sustainable Exploitation Index from 8.9% in 2018 to 97.4% by the end of 2024 – a result of data-driven fisheries management and policy reform. At the UAE-led ministerial roundtable, 'Scaling What Works,' she joined global leaders to showcase tested SDG interventions. During the session, His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Chairman of the UAE National Committee on SDGs and Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange, launched the 2025 edition of the SDGs 2045 Report. 'The UAE is championing a forward-looking vision through the proposed SDGs 2045, reflecting our commitment to long-term sustainable development. Aligned with the UN's Pact for the Future, the framework highlights the UAE as a co-creator of innovative solutions to global challenges,' he said. 'Through platforms like the HLPF and the World Government Summit's 'SDGs in Action Forum', the UAE continues to convene international thought leaders to shape inclusive, resilient, and adaptable development pathways.' During the 'Rapid-Fire Solutions Showcase' roundtable, Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri expanded on Abu Dhabi's integrated approach to marine sustainability. 'Restoring our oceans is about more than science or finance,' she said. 'It's about political will, and Abu Dhabi's experience demonstrates what can be achieved through local leadership, regulatory courage, and long-term investment. To truly scale what works, we must fund what works and replicate it through inclusive global partnerships that cross borders, sectors, and generations.' Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri chaired the SDG14 Ministerial Roundtable during the GEEP Global Retreat, hosted at the UAE Mission to the UN. His Excellency Lootah delivered the keynote address, reinforcing the UAE's role in global cooperation. The session focused on the theme 'Sustainable Environment,' bringing together high-level representatives from partner countries, UN agencies, and academic institutions. In her opening remarks, Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri stressed the need for international collaboration and inclusive marine governance to tackle the challenges facing the world's oceans. 'While SDG14 remains one of the most underachieved global goals, we've seen powerful examples that prove progress is possible when science, policy and partnerships align,' she said. She also presented key findings from Abu Dhabi's 2022 Jaywun Expedition, which mapped microplastic presence across 25 countries and eight marine ecosystems. She also highlighted data from EAD's Fisheries Resource Assessment Surveys and genomic research on key commercial species. Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri concluded by citing success stories including the rehabilitation of 4 million coral colonies and the return of rare fish species like the white-spotted grouper, reinforcing the role of science and community engagement in building resilient marine ecosystems. 'Abu Dhabi's experience offers a blueprint, demonstrating that reversing decades of marine degradation is possible with evidence-based policies, inclusive regulation and shared accountability,' she said. 'Let us act with the urgency our oceans demand. Abu Dhabi is ready to lead, collaborate, and inspire a new era of ocean recovery – because when the ocean thrives, so does life.' Her Excellency Dr. Al Dhaheri also participated in bilateral meetings, joining fellow delegates at the UAE Cultural Night, and engaging with representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to explore collaborative action on sustainable food systems and biodiversity, and with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to discuss urban environmental resilience and pollution control. The HLPF 2025 concluded with a renewed commitment to accelerate SDGs before 2030, reaffirming EAD's role in global environmental leadership and continued commitment toward advancing SDG14 through knowledge exchange, sustainable finance and marine innovation. As the UAE prepares to host the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi later this year, EAD's presence at HLPF 2025 marks a critical milestone in positioning the emirate as a global hub for environmental leadership, nature-based solutions, and sustainability diplomacy. About Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi EAD: Established in 1996, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi EAD is committed to protecting and enhancing air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of our desert and marine ecosystem. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, we embrace international best practice, innovation and hard work to institute effective policy measures. We seek to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of our national agenda.
Al Etihad
22-07-2025
- General
- Al Etihad
EAD showcases Abu Dhabi's marine conservation leadership at UN sustainable development forum
22 July 2025 13:08 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has showcased Abu Dhabi's global leadership in marine conservation and sustainability at the 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), as part of the UAE's official delegation. Held at the UN headquarters in New York from July 14-23, the HLPF is a central platform for reviewing the progress of the 2030 collaboration with the UAE Government Experience Exchange Office (GEEO), and the UAE SDG Secretariat, Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD and Vice Chair of the Global Council on SDG14, participated in a series of high-level sessions advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on SDG 14: Life Below Water. Her participation reflects the UAE's commitment in accelerating the 2030 SDGs and its role in building global consensus on sustainable development to enhance global stability and Excellency Dr Al Dhaheri attended the official opening of the UAE exhibition, which spotlighted the country's progress across priority SDGs. She presented Abu Dhabi's contributions in marine habitat restoration and environmental innovation, including its leadership in global platforms such as the Mangrove Alliance for Climate and the upcoming IUCN World Conservation Congress taking place in Abu Dhabi in October the official SDG14 plenary session, Her Excellency Dr Al Dhaheri delivered a keynote statement, outlining Abu Dhabi's transformative achievements in marine conservation, blue carbon innovation, and sustainable fisheries Excellency said: 'In the UAE, we have made SDG14 a national priority – a commitment grounded in science, backed by policy, and enabled by finance. Abu Dhabi serves as a prime example of what's possible. We are restoring critical blue carbon ecosystems, from mangroves to seagrass meadows, and we've launched the world's largest coral rehabilitation initiative, targeting over four million coral colonies by 2030.'Dr Al Dhaheri also highlighted Abu Dhabi's marine biodiversity efforts, including safeguarding the world's second-largest dugong population of 3,500 individuals, monitoring over 7,900 sea turtles, and deploying environmental DNA and AI-powered tools to map species health. She also highlighted the emirate's success in raising the Sustainable Exploitation Index from 8.9 per cent in 2018 to 97.4 per cent by the end of 2024 – a result of data-driven fisheries management and policy the UAE-led ministerial roundtable, Scaling What Works, she joined global leaders to showcase tested SDG interventions. During the session, His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Chairman of the UAE National Committee on SDGs and Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange, launched the 2025 edition of the SDGs 2045 Excellency said: 'The UAE is championing a forward-looking vision through the proposed SDGs 2045, reflecting our commitment to long-term sustainable development. Aligned with the UN's Pact for the Future, the framework highlights the UAE as a co-creator of innovative solutions to global challenges. "Through platforms like the HLPF and the World Government Summit's SDGs in Action Forum, the UAE continues to convene international thought leaders to shape inclusive, resilient, and adaptable development pathways.' During the Rapid-Fire Solutions Showcase roundtable, Her Excellency Dr Al Dhaheri expanded on Abu Dhabi's integrated approach to marine sustainability. She said: 'Restoring our oceans is about more than science or finance. It's about political will, and Abu Dhabi's experience demonstrates what can be achieved through local leadership, regulatory courage, and long-term investment. To truly scale what works, we must fund what works and replicate it through inclusive global partnerships that cross borders, sectors, and generations.'Her Excellency chaired the SDG14 Ministerial Roundtable during the GEEP Global Retreat, hosted at the UAE Mission to the UN. His Excellency Lootah delivered the keynote address, reinforcing the UAE's role in global session focused on the theme Sustainable Environment, bringing together high-level representatives from partner countries, UN agencies, and academic institutions. In her opening remarks, Her Excellency Dr Al Dhaheri stressed the need for international collaboration and inclusive marine governance to tackle the challenges facing the world's said: 'While SDG14 remains one of the most underachieved global goals, we've seen powerful examples that prove progress is possible when science, policy and partnerships align. She also presented key findings from Abu Dhabi's 2022 Jaywun Expedition, which mapped microplastic presence across 25 countries and eight marine ecosystems. She also highlighted data from EAD's Fisheries Resource Assessment Surveys and genomic research on key commercial Excellency concluded by citing success stories including the rehabilitation of 4 million coral colonies and the return of rare fish species like the white-spotted grouper, reinforcing the role of science and community engagement in building resilient marine said: 'Abu Dhabi's experience offers a blueprint, demonstrating that reversing decades of marine degradation is possible with evidence-based policies, inclusive regulation and shared accountability. Let us act with the urgency our oceans demand. Abu Dhabi is ready to lead, collaborate, and inspire a new era of ocean recovery – because when the ocean thrives, so does life.'Dr Al Dhaheri also participated in bilateral meetings, joining fellow delegates at the UAE Cultural Night, and engaging with representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to explore collaborative action on sustainable food systems and biodiversity, and with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to discuss urban environmental resilience and pollution HLPF 2025 concluded with a renewed commitment to accelerate SDGs before 2030, reaffirming EAD's role in global environmental leadership and continued commitment toward advancing SDG14 through knowledge exchange, sustainable finance and marine innovation. As the UAE prepares to host the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi later this year, EAD's presence at HLPF 2025 marks a critical milestone in positioning the emirate as a global hub for environmental leadership, nature-based solutions, and sustainability diplomacy.
The Star
06-07-2025
- General
- The Star
‘Sustainability in our DNA'
SUSTAINABILITY is part of the identity and way of life at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), says Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed. The USM vice-chancellor affirmed that the varsity is deeply rooted in its commitment to sustainable development and practices that have a tangible impact on society, the nation and the world. Prof Abdul Rahman was responding to USM's performance as Malaysia's highest-ranked institution in the recently released Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings 2025. The varsity sits in joint 14th position with National Taiwan University in the overall ranking, up from 18th place last year. 'This achievement is the result of the collective efforts of the entire USM community. 'Sustainability has become an integrated culture across all aspects of administration, academics and campus life. 'It is not merely an effort to secure a strong position, but part of our identity and work ethic,' he said in a statement. The varsity also topped the global rankings in three of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It came first for SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions), and joint first with Universiti Malaya (UM) for SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals). In total, 65% of USM's performance falls within the world's top 100, including SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 5 (gender equality), SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), SDG 14 (life below water), and SDG 15 (life on land). Meanwhile, Universiti Malaya (UM) - the country's second highest-ranked university - secured joint 25th position with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia. Besides sharing first place with USM for SDG 17, UM was ranked fourth globally in SDG 1 for its strong student support systems - including financial aid, affordable housing and transportation - and outreach to marginalised communities. It also leads the Asia region in sixth place for SDG 14, and ranks joint seventh globally for SDG 11 due to its green campus efforts and sustainability policies, and 12th for SDG 15 for its leadership in biodiversity conservation and environmental education. Commenting on UM's number one global ranking in SDG 17 with a 99.8% score, its vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman called it a testament to the university's shared vision and collective effort. 'This recognition reaffirms our unwavering commitment to the cause of sustainable and future-driven development. 'It reflects how strategic sustainable plans have been transformed into practical realities - benefiting not only our immediate community, but future generations and the world as a whole,' he said in a statement. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Sunway University are the other two Malaysian universities that made their way into the top 100 of the rankings. UKM climbed to joint 53rd while Sunway University ranks 81st, up from the 201–300 band. In total, Malaysia has 34 universities in the rankings. Other Malaysian universities that stood out in individual categories include Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), which ranks 18th for SDG 7; Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), 41st place for SDG 10 (reduced inequalities); and UKM, 26th position for SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production). The seventh edition of the University Impact Rankings was released on June 18 by THE, publisher of the globally recognised THE World University Rankings. The rankings are the only global performance tables that assess universities against the UN SDGs across four broad areas - research, stewardship, outreach and teaching. Universities are ranked across 18 tables: one overall ranking and 17 tables representing each individual SDG. A record 2,526 universities were ranked globally from 130 countries, with Asian universities claiming more than half of the rankings for the first time. THE chief global affairs officer Phil Baty said: 'Universities worldwide are stepping up to help the world take on its most pressing grand challenges, from the climate crisis to delivering economic growth to supporting peace and justice across the world. 'Asia is leading the way on the sustainability agenda. 'Asia's clear dominance of the rankings in terms of overall representation, and so many outstanding individual university performances, including several world number-one positions for individual SDGs, shows that when it comes to universities' social and economic impact, the world will increasingly look to Asia.' For more information, visit
Zawya
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
African Island States Advance Ocean Partnerships and Finance Innovation at United Nations (UN) Ocean Conference
In a high-profile gathering during the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), the African Island States Climate Commission (AISCC), in partnership with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), convened a High-Level Dialogue aimed at strengthening ocean partnerships and mobilizing innovative finance to support sustainable development across African Small Island Developing States. With participation from ministers, ambassadors, and senior officials representing island nations, United Nations agencies, and global development partners, the Dialogue marked a significant step toward aligning regional leadership, blue economy priorities, and climate finance strategies in pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14). Held as an official side event in the UNOC3 Blue Zone, the Dialogue was guided by the theme 'Strengthening Ocean Partnerships for Resilience and Sustainable Finance: Charting a Blue Future for African Island States and AIS SIDS.' Discussions emphasized the unique vulnerabilities of African Island States, the need for coordinated climate and ocean governance, and the urgency of unlocking scalable, long-term financing solutions tailored to the needs of island nations. Opening the event, Flavien Joubert, Chair of the AISCC and Minister of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment for the Republic of Seychelles, described the conference as a unique opportunity for African Island States and Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) to demonstrate global leadership on ocean sustainability. He called for stronger cooperation across SIDS regions and emphasized the central role of the AISCC as an innovative platform for climate action and diplomacy. Minister Joubert highlighted existing partnerships with ECA, IOC, and the Green Climate Fund (GCF) as examples of how African island nations are working together to mobilize resources and build collective resilience. He reaffirmed Seychelles' commitment to lead the AISCC in a spirit of solidarity and inclusion, 'ensuring no island state is left behind.' United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Li Junhua, who served as Secretary-General of both the UNOC3 and the Fourth International Conference on SIDS (SIDS4), reiterated the UN's full support for African SIDS. He noted that the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) is nearing completion, and that work is underway to establish governance mechanisms for implementing the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI). Li also pointed to reforms in the SIDS Partnership Framework as part of ongoing efforts to ensure more effective and accountable cooperation with the international community. Nassim Oulmane, Head of the Natural Resources, Green and Blue Economy Section at ECA, stated in his welcoming remarks that this Dialogue builds on momentum from key AISCC high-level events convened at the UNFCCC COP28, COP29, African Climate Summit, and 4th International SIDS Conference. He held that the region must continue strengthening regional and international cooperation, and unlock innovative, scalable solutions through tools like blue bonds and debt-for-ocean swaps, and other innovative mechanisms. 'ECA, in partnership with AISCC, is proud to support initiatives like the RESIslands project, funded by the GCF,' he said. 'Together, we are advancing integrated approaches to promote ocean health, sustainable development, and climate resilience—leaving no one behind.' In the ministerial panel, national leaders from across the region provided a grounded view of both challenges and opportunities. Nilda Borges da Mata, Minister of Environment, Youth and Sustainable Tourism of São Tomé and Príncipe, said that unity among African SIDS is key to advancing sustainable development. 'When we speak with one voice, we gain strength. When we share knowledge, we gain resilience. And when we cooperate, we attract the resources we need,' she said. Borges da Mata reaffirmed her country's support for the AISCC as a critical platform to promote regional cooperation on climate and ocean priorities. Guinea-Bissau's Minister of Environment, Biodiversity and Climate Action, Viriato Soares Cassamá, announced that his country will host the next Ministerial Meeting of the AISCC later this year. He revealed the upcoming meeting as a decisive moment for the AISCC to launch a Joint Declaration on Oceans and Climate, a Sustainable Finance Action Plan, and new governance mechanisms that include women, youth, and local voices. Maria Ebiaca Moete, State Secretary of Finance, Planning and Economic Development of Equatorial Guinea, emphasized the importance of investment in locally led, community-based solutions. 'We see the RESIslands Initiative as a key platform to channel investment into sustainable, locally led projects,' she said. Moete also called for the creation of a dedicated international funding mechanism for island states and urged development partners to design financing instruments that are simpler, more flexible, and more accessible for vulnerable island economies. Fabrice David, Junior Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries of Mauritius, called for a shift in perception of SIDS from fragile to formidable. 'This is a critical moment for SIDS to show leadership as Big Ocean States,' he said. 'SDG14 remains the most underfunded of all global goals. That must change.' Minister David introduced the Blue Finance Hub initiative, developed with support from the Africa Natural Capital Alliance (ANCA) and FSD Africa, which he described as a promising model for catalyzing nature-positive investments in the blue economy, with potential for replication across other African island nations. The panel featured senior-level participation from Cabo Verde and Madagascar, too. In addition to the governmental interventions, the event included the United Nations Secretary-General Special Envoy for the Ocean, the Deputy Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the UN Resident Coordinator in Cabo Verde, as well as senior speakers from the Indian Ocean Commission, the Green Climate Fund, the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the SIDS Hub at the Foreign, Commonwealth&Development Office of the United Kingdom, and the ANCA Secretariat of FSD Africa. Throughout the High-Level Dialogue, speakers stressed the urgency of rethinking the global financial system to respond more effectively to the realities of island nations, and the need for AIS SIDS to have a stronger voice in shaping international ocean and climate frameworks. The meeting reaffirmed the role of the AISCC as a unifying body for African Island States, driving forward shared strategies on SDG 14 and building a sustainable, climate-resilient blue future through partnership, innovation, and action. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
