Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has been elected as the Vice President of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3).
In a statement on Monday, June 9, Joho described his election as a significant milestone for both the country and the African continent.
"Being elected as the Vice President of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) which kicked off today in Nice, France, inspires me as it places us in a pivotal position to advance the interests of Kenya and Africa on the global stage," he said.
As Vice President of the global conference, Joho will play a key role in shaping the agenda and facilitating discussions among member states and international stakeholders.
His responsibilities will include delivering interventions on behalf of specific blocs, including the African Group, and representing the continent at high-level events linked to the conference.
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“As Vice-President of this esteemed global organization, I will have the opportunity to advocate for our country's interests and deliver interventions on behalf of specific groups, including the African Group, at the 3rd Ocean Action. I will also represent our continent at High-Level events related to the conference,” he added.
Joho expressed optimism that the appointment would amplify Kenya’s leadership in ocean conservation and blue economy initiatives.
“I am optimistic that this role will significantly elevate our country's profile in matters of ocean conservation,” he noted.
The United Nations Ocean Conference is a global gathering focused on conserving and sustainably using the world's oceans, seas, and marine resources.
The first conference was held in New York in 2017, followed by Lisbon in 2022, and the third conference is taking place in Nice, France, from June 9 to 13.
At the UNOC3, delegates are negotiating the Nice Ocean Action Plan, a consensus political declaration accompanied by a registry of voluntary commitments.
