Kenya has opened the 11th Our Ocean Conference (OOC11) in Mombasa, marking the first time the annual global forum — which since 2014 has generated over 2,900 commitments worth more than US$169 billion for ocean action — has been held on African soil. Running over three days under the theme "Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future," the gathering brings together governments, scientists, investors, and civil society groups to drive measurable progress across marine protection, sustainable fisheries, climate adaptation, and maritime security. Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, Hassan Ali Joho, said the conference aims to elevate African leadership in ocean governance and build partnerships that deliver real-world impact, with particular focus on unlocking private investment and centring coastal communities as active partners in conservation and sustainable economic development.