Research Paper Summary: Recommendations for Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework in the Western Indian Ocean

By Research & Technology, ,

Authors: Jennifer O’Leary et al.

The WIOMPAN Regional Exchange workshop held on the 1st to the 4th of November 2023 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, highlighted several key priorities for the region. In collaboration with various partners, including the Nairobi Convention, the Minderoo Foundation, the World Conservation Society (WCS), WIOMSA, IUCN, Fauna and Flora International, the MIHARI network, and the Coastal and Marine Resources Development, Kenya, WIOMPAN submitted a paper to the Nairobi Convention for the Science to Policy meeting, Maputo, Mozambique (5th to 7th of December 2023).

Preamble:

Area-based conservation is crucial for preserving marine ecosystems in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). Currently, 8% of the WIO’s Exclusive Economic Zone is covered by Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and other conservation measures. As the region aims to meet the ambitious Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) Target 3, focusing on conserving 30% of marine and coastal areas, the need for effective governance and management of existing MPAs is paramount.

Challenges in Management Effectiveness:

Despite growth in MPA coverage, approximately 40% are not effectively managed, posing a threat to marine biodiversity. A lack of collaboration among MPA practitioners and inadequate sharing of knowledge and experiences contribute to this challenge. Building capacity at regional, national, and site levels is essential to enhance governance and management.

Recommendations to the Convention:

Policy Recommendations:

  • Develop a more inclusive policy and legal framework for WIO region.
  • Identify institutional best practices for MPA/OECM administration.
  • Endorse a regional capacity development program guided by WIOMPAN.

 Technical Recommendations:

  • Expand other effective area-based measures in an integrated manner.
  • Develop roadmaps at regional and national levels aligned with CBD targets.
  • Support a regionally coordinated update of management effectiveness measurements.
  • Increase understanding of benefits through national audits and studies.

In conclusion, the paper emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance the effectiveness of MPAs and OECMs in the WIO region, providing a roadmap for the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework. The recommendations highlight the need for policy and institutional reforms, capacity building, and recognition of diverse conservation mechanisms to achieve regional and global biodiversity goals.