By Hassan Adan Ali, Somali
My first memory of the ocean dates back to when I was around 8 to 10 years old. I remember the excitement of going to the ocean for the first time, accompanied by my dad. As we approached the shore, the intensity of the waves and the unfamiliar sound of the ocean filled me with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. When I saw the waves advancing towards me, I instinctively ran back, screaming in fear. It wasn’t until later, when my dad comforted me that the waves wouldn’t reach the shore, that I realised my mistake. Looking back, it’s a funny memory that I cherish, although it also brings a sense of longing for my dad, My Lord! Be merciful to him as he raised me when I was young.
I try to make regular trips to the ocean, and one of my cherished destinations is Abay-Dahan Beach in Somalia, which I visited in 2022. Being by the ocean brings me immense joy and tranquility. Whether it’s engaging in water activities or simply relishing the calming presence of the sea, I always find solace and contentment near the ocean’s shores.
I often think about countries that don’t have access to an ocean, and I wish they could experience the same sense of peace that I feel when I’m near or in the ocean. The vastness of the ocean and the soothing sounds of the waves have a unique way of calming the mind and nourishing the soul.
The Ocean means everything to me. Seafood is a daily delight for me, reflecting my deep connection to the ocean. In fact, I’ve deliberately rented a home near the coast to savour the ocean breeze and immerse myself in its tranquil atmosphere every single day.
Furthermore, the ocean plays a crucial role in my life, as it serves as a vital regulator of Earth’s climate. Its ability to absorb and store significant amounts of carbon dioxide is instrumental in mitigating the impacts of climate change. This underscores the importance of the ocean for all humanity, regardless of proximity to its shores.
“Journeys to the Sea” is a new series of inspiring stories that highlight the personal connections of marine professionals with the ocean. As a follow up to World Oceans Day on June 8th, WIOMSA is excited to launch a three-month-long celebration dedicated to the ocean. The series will feature 34 unique stories from across the Western Indian Ocean region. These stories will share firsthand accounts of ocean-related experiences, reflections, and narratives from participants who have been part of the Sida-funded International Training Programme on marine spatial planning, “Planning for a Sustainable Blue Future in the Western Indian Ocean”. The stories have been part of the Ocean Storytelling component of the workshop, led by Dr Mia Strand, Nelson Mandela University. Read the collection of stories here.
Feature photo: © Hassan Adan