Liberian News: Stakeholders Advocate for Education, Gender Inclusion, and Policy Reforms at Liberia’s First Ocean Governance Conference

Monrovia– Liberia hosted its first-ever Ocean Governance Conference on Friday, marking a significant step toward fostering sustainable ocean use across the country.

The event, held at the University of Liberia, brought together policymakers, researchers, and community representatives to discuss strategic priorities for the future of Liberia’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 Liberia.

A central theme of the communiqué was the urgent need to integrate ocean literacy into Liberia’s education system. Stakeholders emphasized that increasing public understanding of the ocean 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 of Liberia—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 Liberia’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 stated.

Furthermore, attendees 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.

Speaking at the conference, the Assistant Minister of Coastal Affairs at the Ministry of Defense praised the initiative and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to raising awareness about the ocean. Minister Kamara underscored the event’s potential to spark greater national interest in the maritime sector and to deepen ocean literacy at the grassroots level.

Also delivering remarks, Mr. Fred Ahiati of the University of Liberia’s Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Sciences expressed strong support for the conference, describing it as “a monumental victory for ocean governance in Liberia.” He noted the department’s pride in serving as a key partner in organizing the landmark event.

Contributing to the discussion, Mr. John SaylaySingbaei II, a lecturer in the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences, emphasized the need for a more coordinated approach to ocean governance. He expressed concern over the current fragmentation across institutions and called for unified efforts moving forward.

Mr. Singbaei, who also convened the conference in his capacity as Executive Director of the Cavalla Institute and an expert in Ocean Law and Policy, reiterated that a well-governed ocean holds the potential to deliver substantial economic benefits to both the Liberian government and its people.

New Republic Liberia

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.