Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called for strengthened global sustainability programmes aimed at protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring oceans continue to sustain future generations.
Speaking during the ongoing Our Ocean Conference 2026, he emphasized that ocean health is inseparably linked to the survival of humanity and the planet, urging countries and partners to move beyond commitments and focus on measurable action, impact, and long-term environmental stewardship.
He reaffirmed that scientific evidence consistently shows a close and permanent relationship between the survival of the planet and the health of its oceans. Kindiki noted that oceans remain a critical life-support system, regulating climate, sustaining biodiversity, and underpinning global food security and livelihoods.
He stressed that protecting marine ecosystems is therefore not a discretionary environmental goal, but a fundamental requirement for global stability and human survival in the coming generations.
Human Activity Driving Ocean Stress
The Deputy President raised concern over increasing pressure on marine environments, noting that much of it is driven by human activity.
DP Kindiki observed that because these pressures are human-made, they are also manageable and reversible through coordinated policy action, responsible economic practices, and stronger environmental governance.
He cautioned that continued unsustainable exploitation of marine resources risks undermining ecosystems facing pollution, overfishing and climate change.
Call for Action-Driven Sustainability Programmes
Kindiki urged participants at the conference to confront the reality of unsustainable practices affecting oceans and accelerate the implementation of structured sustainability programmes.
He emphasized that declarations alone are insufficient unless matched with implementation, accountability, and sustained investment in marine protection initiatives.
DP Kindiki further underscored the need for collective responsibility among governments, private sector actors, and civil society in reversing environmental degradation.
He concluded by reaffirming that protecting oceans is a shared global duty that requires sustained collaboration, innovation, and long-term commitment to ensure marine ecosystems remain viable for future generations.
