We are excited to invite you to a landmark event celebrating Marine Protected Area (MPA) Day 2026 in the Western Indian Ocean!
On 31st July 2026, from 11:00 to 12:00 EAT, WIOMPAN, WIOMSA and partners will host an interactive webinar exploring why truly effective ocean protection depends on human connection.
Why Attend?
The session will bring together practitioners, policy makers, community leaders, and technical experts from across the region to shift the narrative from simply counting protected hectares to prioritizing quality management, community legitimacy, and inclusive conservation. Our region’s 140+ MPAs and 300+ locally managed marine areas are proof that when people are at the heart of marine conservation, lasting impact is possible.
What to Expect:
- Featured talks: Marcos Pereira (Likhulu Foundation, Mozambique) on community livelihoods and capacity building, and Dr. Milali Machumu (FETA, Tanzania) on management effectiveness and science-based mentoring.
- A practical discussion led by Puri Canals (MedPAN) on how Western Indian Ocean experience can inform global ocean governance—especially in the era of the new BBNJ High Seas Treaty.
- Actionable takeaways, including a set of partner commitments you can implement right away to advance people-centered conservation in your own context.
Key Takeaways:
- A shared narrative for MPA Day 2026, centered on human connection and quality management.
Stronger visibility for WIO practice and WIOMPAN’s role in supporting effective MPAs and LMMAs.
Clearer understanding of how regional experience links to the BBNJ Agreement.
Practical commitments for participants to act on after the event.
Register Now
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, share, and co-create the future of ocean protection in our region and beyond. 👉 Register here.
