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Oceans integral part ofclimate resilience—VP

Vice-President Michael Usi has said although Malawi is a land linked nation and does not have a direct coastline it recognises the significance of global oceans as an integral part of economic prosperity and climate resilience.

He  said this when he addressed the African Consultation meeting taking place in Tangier, Morocco ahead of the Third United Nations Ocean Conference in June 2025.

Usi: Ocean governance must focus on sustainable management

Usi said Malawi’s position at the meeting was framed by the fact that it is a steward of one of Africa’s most significant freshwater body, Lake Malawi holding 20 percent of the world’s freshwater.

Said the Vice-President: “For us, effective governance of this freshwater resource provides a parallel framework for contributing to global ocean governance.

“Lake Malawi provides livelihoods to millions of people through fishing, tourism and transport.”

He said in this regard, Malawi’s approach to ocean governance focuses on sustainable resource management, cooperative governance, climate adaptation and biodiversity conservation.

Overall, the meeting will adopt priorities, challenges and recommendations from African countries for the June 2025 summit.

Speaking, earlier UN special advisor for the oceans Peter Thomson said African countries have a crucial stake on discussions involving oceans.

“Africa must elevate its engagement on ocean issues with the global world. We all know the mantra – no life, without healthy oceans. We must make this message louder in schools and in boardroom,” he said. 

The summit is being hosted by Morocco’s Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests Dr. Mohammed Sadik.

Vice President Usi is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with Moroccan government officials to deepen relations between Rabat and Lilongwe following establishment of diplomatic ties 10 months ago.

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