Lack of Funding Could Sink Africa's Ocean Protection Efforts

Over 11 million tonnes of plastic are dumped into the world's oceans annually, and 90% of its fish population has been fully exploited or overfished. As the planet's 'blue lungs', the oceans are in dire straits and face irreversible damage, reports David Willima for the Institute for Security Studies.

Despite the urgency of the situation, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, which calls for the sustainable management and utilisation of marine resources, remains the least-funded of all SDGs. At the halfway mark for achieving these goals, a mere 3.5% of total SDG financing is allocated to "life below water."

Addressing this financial shortfall is a global issue that requires immediate attention. African nations, with their vast coastlines and rich marine resources, can play a leading role in bridging this funding gap. By investing greater resources in meeting SDG 14 targets, African countries can not only safeguard their marine ecosystems but also unlock the immense potential of the blue economy.

Implementing the Africa Blue Economy Strategy is vital to harness the continent's blue economy, aligning with global ocean governance frameworks and advocating for increased international climate finance through entities like the Green Climate Fund.