Join us for an insightful webinar titled “From Margins to Mainstream: Inclusive Structures in Ocean Governance in the Western Indian Ocean,” hosted by WIOMSA, the Network for Women in Marine Science (WiMS), the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management (SwAM), and the Centre for Integrated Post-School Education and Training, Nelson Mandela University (CIPSET-NMU)
Date: June 24, 2025
Time: 11:00 to 12:30 EAT
Despite significant strides in marine science and conservation, gender inequality continues to impede progress in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region. Women represent a substantial portion of primary resource users, yet their voices, knowledge, and leadership are often marginalized from ocean management and decision-making processes. This persistent exclusion hampers efforts to achieve sustainable oceans and limits the diversity of perspectives essential for effective governance.
Addressing these systemic barriers is critical. True inclusivity in ocean governance extends beyond ensuring numerical gender balance; it requires transformative institutional change, equitable access to opportunities, and the empowerment of underrepresented voices. Recognizing the intersectionality of gender with other social factors is vital in creating a more equitable and effective marine management landscape.
Webinar Focus:
The session, titled will delve into the persistent gender gaps within marine science and policy in the WIO. Experts and practitioners will examine how structural inequalities restrict women’s participation, leadership, and influence in the sector. We will explore practical strategies for fostering inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility—particularly the role of men—in advancing gender equality. Speakers will highlight initiatives that empower young women, promote economic independence, and implement gender-sensitive approaches in marine conservation and mentorship programs.
Moderated by: Zikhona Tywaabi-Ngeva, Chair, WiMS
Speakers:
- Anne-Elies Nieblas, Executive member and Country Representative La Réunion, WiMS
- Cornelias Ncube, Associate Professor of Development Studies, the Institute of Development Sciences, National University of Science and Technology, South Africa
- Dr. Renis Auma Ojwala, Post-doctoral Research Associate, World Maritime University (WMU), Sweden
- Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator, YouthNet Global, Bangladesh
Register here
