Ocean20 Connects Inland Communities to the Ocean

The South African Environmental Observation Network (NRF-SAEON) proudly hosted a two-day outreach workshop held at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Lowveld Botanical Gardens in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, from 26-27 May 2025. Themed Connecting Inland Communities to the Ocean, the workshop aimed to bridge the divide between inland communities and South Africa’s ocean spaces by exploring inclusive pathways into the Blue Economy. The event was supported by colleagues from NRF-SAIAB, UCT, SAWS, OceanHub Africa and the Transport Education and Training Authority.

The Honourable Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Blade Nzimande, delivered the keynote address and emphasised the importance of inclusive ocean science and innovation. He highlighted the need to build awareness and unlock economic opportunities for communities located far from the coast, ensuring that inland voices are also represented in the country’s ocean discourse.

Minister Nzimande shared additional remarks on SABC News, where he underlined the importance of raising awareness among both inland and coastal communities about the ocean’s role as part of South Africa’s biodiversity heritage.

This event forms part of the Ocean20 South Africa (O20SA) programme, proudly co-convened by NRF-SAEON and the United Nations Global Compact under the G20 South African Presidency. With the theme Uniting for Ocean Sustainability: Advancing Cooperative Innovation and Partnerships.