Blue Planet
As the world embarks on an ambitious journey of conservation and protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030, it is of paramount importance to ensure that such target is not only achieved on paper but importantly on the ground by empowering local stakeholders to become stewards and managers of the ocean.
This pillar focuses on this effort by supporting the establishment of relevant governance frameworks at seascape level and the necessary enabling policy frameworks at national, regional and international levels. It also focuses on increasing the effectiveness and equity of area-based conservation measures.
Communities, Livelihoods, Equity, and Justice
For generations, communities across the Western Indian Ocean in Comoros Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Somalia, Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa and Tanzania have built their identities, livelihoods and cultures around the sea. Marine ecosystems have provided food, income and a sense of belonging, forming the backbone of local economies and traditions. Despite this long-standing relationship, many of these coastal populations have remained on the margins of marine governance, climate negotiations and investment agendas. Decisions affecting their waters and futures have often been made without their input or representation.
The Great Blue Wall (GBW) initiative seeks to change this by placing local communities at the heart of ocean conservation and sustainable development. It promotes a model that links ecological health with social equity and economic opportunity, building a network of marine protected and conserved areas that are connected through restored ecosystems and managed by the communities themselves.
At the centre of this vision is “Blue Planet”, which represents a transformative approach to ocean governance in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO), aiming to harmonize global conservation goals with local needs. As the world seeks to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030, Blue Planet is dedicated to bridging the gap between ambition and action by establishing inclusive, equitable, and effective governance frameworks. This strategy focuses on empowering Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs), enhancing policy coherence, and improving the management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs). By fostering regional collaboration, leveraging technological advancements, and mobilizing resources, Blue Planet aspires to ensure sustainable and resilient marine ecosystems while delivering tangible benefits to local communities and contributing to global conservation targets.