Addis Ababa, 25 July 2019, Today, the African continent celebrates the Africa Day of Seas and Oceans, and in my capacity as the African Union’s Commissioner in charge of Rural Economy and Agriculture which includes the environment portfolio and by extension the Blue Economy component, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere congratulations to all African Union Member States, Regional Economic Communities and partners and wish them joyful commemorations.

The African Day of the Seas and Oceans is commemorated on 25 July of each year following the AU Summit Decision Assembly/AU/Dec. 496(XXII) that retained the 2015-2025 decade as the "Decade of African Seas and Oceans”, and the date of 25 July as the African Day of Seas and Oceans.

The importance of celebrating the Africa Day of Seas and Oceans cannot be over emphasized. The celebrations are invaluable advocacy channel to ensure the protection, conservation and sustainable exploitation of Seas and Oceans of Africa. Protecting Africa’s seas and oceans is a collective responsibility for us all.

African oceans and seas are vital components of food and nutrition security. Fish and fish products make a significant contribution to the food and nutritional security of over 200 million Africans and provides income for over 10 million.

The coastal and marine ecosystems play a significant role in mitigating the impacts of climate change as they could serve as carbon sinks and buffer against coastal erosion.

In terms transport of both good and people, Africa’s Oceans and Seas as well as lake are indispensable. Over 90% of Africa’s imports and exports are conducted by sea and internal water bodies.

Africa’s marine resources are very vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, over exploitation of resources and dumping of wastes including plastics. These have devastating consequences on marine life and human population.

Realising the immense value of our Oceans and Seas and the threat facing them, my Department in collaboration with partners has undertaken measures to create awareness on the safety and sustainable utilization of resources therein. On the margins of the 2019 January Summit of the Assembly the Commission organized the first High-Level side event with African First Ladies on combatting Plastic Pollution and are working to intensify efforts at the national level to combat plastic pollution. On marine resources the Commission also organized an event during January 2019 Summit to highlight the dangers posed illegal exploitation of our fisheries resources.

My Department remains committed in working with AU Member States, and relevant stakeholders to promote the sustainable use of our marine resources for the common good and prosperity of the African peoples.

I wish you all memorable celebrations.