Africa is hosting the Our Ocean Conference (OOC11) for the first time, with the event taking place on June 17, 2026, in Mombasa, Kenya. The conference highlights the need for stronger implementation of ocean commitments, as the world has pledged to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030. Attention is turning to what meaningful progress looks like on paper and in practice. The Nature Conservancy is spotlighting its deep partnership with African governments and coastal communities to translate ocean commitments into tangible, on-the-ground impact. Ademola Ajagbe, Regional Managing Director of The Nature Conservancy's Africa program, shared insights on Africa's emerging leadership in ocean conservation, the practical implications of the High Seas Treaty for African waters, the role of AI and electronic monitoring in combating illegal fishing, and how effective marine protection can deliver real economic benefits for coastal communities. Claver Gatete, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, said Africa needs companies able to grow, innovate, compete and create jobs. According to theafricanmirror.africa, Africa’s structural vulnerabilities include the lingering effects of COVID-19, climate shocks, conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and mounting debt burdens, with Africa’s debt burden amounting to 64.3% of GDP and average GDP growth since 2019 hovering around 3%. According to theafricanmirror.africa, 7% GDP growth is needed to achieve SDG 8 on work and economic growth, and aid can no longer be considered a reliable or sustainable solution for Africa’s development. According to theafricanmirror.africa, traditional financing models are increasingly misaligned with Africa’s development aspirations. The African Development Impact Forum (ADIF) was held on June 11-12, 2026, in Addis Ababa.