Liberia hosted its first-ever Ocean Governance Conference on Friday, June 6, 2025, marking a significant step toward fostering sustainable ocean use across the country.
According to a release, the event, was held at the University of Liberia (UL) main campus. It brought together policymakers, researchers and community representatives. They discussed strategic priorities for the future of the country’s marine resources.
The conference, which concluded a four-day Ocean Governance Seminar, was organized with support from the Swedish Embassy in Monrovia and Conservation International-Liberia.
It served as a platform for diverse stakeholders to exchange ideas and establish a unified vision for ocean sustainability.
At the close of the event, participants issued a comprehensive communiqué, presented by Ms. Mosiatta Faith Johnson, outlining key actions necessary for advancing ocean governance in the country.
A central theme of the communiqué was the urgent need to integrate ocean literacy into the country’s education system.
Stakeholders were concerned about increasing public understanding of the ocean, which they said, “is crucial for encouraging responsible behavior and inspiring citizens to value and protect marine resources.”
Recognizing that many Liberians have limited knowledge of the ocean despite its vital role in the national economy, the group urged the government through its relevant agencies to prioritize the inclusion of ocean literacy in the national curriculum.
This move, they argued, would significantly raise public awareness and promote sustainable ocean practices.
The communiqué also highlighted the importance of capacity building to enhance the country’s participation in regional and global ocean governance initiatives.
“Capacity building is essential for achieving integrated ocean management, especially in a transitioning economy like Liberia,” the statement read. It identified three levels of development—individual, institutional, and societal—as critical to strengthening ocean governance.
Gender inclusivity featured prominently in the conference’s recommendations.
Participants called for stronger policies to support and protect women in ocean-related sectors, especially in fisheries and the maritime industry. “We urge both the government and international partners to enact policies that promote and safeguard women’s participation in ocean governance,” the communiqué read.
Furthermore, participants advocated for the development of a cohesive national ocean policy. They stressed the importance of multi-stakeholder coordination—particularly involving coastal communities—in shaping a comprehensive framework that reflects the interests and needs of all sectors.
“Effective coordination is vital,” the communiqué concluded, “not only to streamline efforts among government agencies but also to elevate the role of local stakeholders in decision-making processes.”
The conference marked a significant milestone in Liberia’s journey toward sustainable ocean stewardship, with strong calls for action in education, gender equality, capacity development, and inclusive policy-making.