Parallel and Side Events Contents Page

African process for the development and protection of the marine and coastal environment

Presented by the Government of South Africa

Jacob Zuma, Deputy President of South Africa, explained that the event would launch the second phase of the African process for the development and protection of the marine and coastal environment. He expressed hope that the process would extend to other countries and called for practical mechanisms with achievable timeframes and involvement of all stakeholders into partnerships.

Joachim Chissano, President of Mozambique, stressed that the process is an integrated strategy and recommended strengthening cooperation and increasing political will at all levels. He noted the high degree of national ownership and the cross sectoral and multi-disciplinary approach of the process. He called on the international community to assist Africa in developing and implementing the programme, which requires an estimated USD 312 Million. He introduced the programme's actions in the fields of: coastal erosion; management of key ecosystems and habitats; tourism; sustainable use of living resources; and pollution.

Olusegun Obasanjo, President of Nigeria, highlighted the need for: strengthening national capacities; increasing assistance from the international community; and adopting innovative implementing mechanisms. He introduced a Joint Ministerial Statement on environmental governance.

Abdoulaye Wade, President of Senegal, proposed establishing an interim secretariat to monitor and coordinate the programme's implementation. He also recommended integrating the process into the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) initiative.

Yahya Jammeh, President of the Gambia, stressed the importance and benefits of the process for the Gambia, including for the fishery and tourism sectors. He reiterated the Gambia's commitment to the process.

Dominic Fobih, Ghanean Minister of Environment and Science, called for the revitalization of the Nairobi and Abidjian Conventions on the marine and coastal environment. He called for partnerships and for increased financial assistance from developed countries.

Daniel Arap Moi, President of Kenya, stressed the transboundary nature of marine resources and the need for regional cooperation.

Arcado Ntagazwa, Tanzanian Minister of State for the Environment, stressed the need for a participative bottom-up approach.

Pedro Perves, President of Cap Verde, drew attention to the vulnerability of island states.

Conrad Lautenbacher, US, stressed the US' technical support to the process.

Mohamed El-Ashry, GEF; James Bond, World Bank; Patricio Bernal, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO; and Klaus Töpfer, UNEP Executive Director; expressed their organizations' support and assistance to the initiative.

Heherson Alvarez, Minister of Environment of the Philippines, called on participating African countries to share knowledge and experience with East Asian countries. He expressed hope that East Asia would develop a similar partnership.