Ocean20SA Brings African-Led Ocean Action to the Global Stage at UNOC3

At the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France, Ocean20 South Africa took centre stage in a powerful side event on 9 June, hosted by the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), in partnership with the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). This landmark moment saw Dr Tamaryn Morris and Prof Juliet Hermes present the bold ambitions and tangible progress of the Ocean20 Social Engagement Group under South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

The event was officially opened by Dr Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, who led the South African delegation to UNOC3. He was joined by Ms Sanda Ojiambo, UN Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UNGC, who spoke to the importance of partnerships that integrate science, policy, community, and capital.

The Ocean20 session was a vibrant and forward-looking discussion that reflected the 2025 theme of solidarity, sustainability, and equality. What made this event distinct was the emphasis on Africa’s leadership in ocean innovation, and the practical steps already being taken to transform ambition into action.

Dr Morris highlighted Ocean20’s growing momentum in connecting scientific and academic communities with blue economy stakeholders, and strengthening the link between observing systems and real-world impact — particularly through community-led innovations and youth engagement. Dr Morris emphasised the importance of inclusive, co-designed solutions that not only improve forecasting and climate modelling but also support just transitions for coastal and inland communities.

The panel brought together a dynamic mix of global and regional perspectives:

• Dr Janice Trotte-Duhá (INPO, Brazil) shared lessons from Brazil’s inaugural Ocean20 presidency.
• Ms Yuna Sellami (European Commission) underlined the value of international alignment on marine policy and finance.
• Dr Herland Cerveaux (OceanHub Africa) and Ms Ayla Bajwa (DP World) emphasised innovation and investment in African ocean start-ups.
• Ms Bernice Mclean (AUDA-NEPAD) stressed Africa’s strategic opportunity to drive an inclusive ocean economy.

Moderated with clarity and energy by Mr Erik Giercksky (UNGC), the discussion focused on how to unlock financing, data, and governance to enable locally led ocean solutions.

This side event affirmed Ocean20SA as a trailblazing African-led initiative, bridging science, society, and investment toward a sustainable and equitable ocean future.

To follow Ocean20SA or join the growing movement, visit: https://egagasini.saeon.ac.za/ocean20sa/ or email: ocean20sa@saeon.nrf.ac.za.