Bissau, Guinea-Bissau – From April 23 to 26, 2024, the capital of Guinea-Bissau will be the focal point for marine resource conservation in West Africa as it hosts the 11th edition of the Coastal and Marine Regional Forum. Organized by the Regional Partnership for the Conservation of the Coastal and Marine Zone in West Africa (PRCM), this international event will bring together experts, policymakers, representatives from NGOs, and donors to discuss challenges and opportunities related to coastal ecosystem conservation.

Themed “Conservation, Resilience, and Sustainable Development in the Face of Global Changes,” the Forum will emphasize the importance of mobilizing stakeholders and partnerships to strengthen resilience, conservation, and sustainable development of the coastal and marine zone. This gathering will facilitate idea exchange, collaboration, and concerted action to preserve our marine and coastal resources.

The opening ceremony will be presided over by the President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Embalo Sissoco, demonstrating the high-level commitment of the state to marine ecosystem preservation. The Ministry of Environment, Biodiversity, and Climate Action of Guinea-Bissau plays a key role in organizing this event.

The Forum will bring together nearly 400 participants, including experts, policymakers, representatives from NGOs, research institutes, members of civil society, and donors. Over these few days, participants will have the opportunity to engage in conferences, technical workshops, exhibitions showcasing the latest advancements in coastal conservation, as well as excursions to discover the specificities of Guinea-Bissau’s coastal zone.

By hosting this regional Forum, Guinea-Bissau showcases its commitment to natural resource preservation and provides an opportunity to highlight the challenges and opportunities associated with marine conservation in West Africa.

At the event’s conclusion, strategic recommendations will be documented in the Bissau Declaration. This declaration will serve as a roadmap to guide future actions and attest to the participants’ commitment to protecting the West African coastline, its resources, and biodiversity.

The Regional Partnership for the Conservation of the Coastal and Marine Zone in West Africa (PRCM) is a platform that brings together approximately 90 partners dedicated to sea and coastal preservation. It covers seven West African countries and aims to coordinate interventions, advocate for conservation, and mobilize technical and financial resources to support integrated coastal zone management.

This regional coastal and marine Forum presents a opportunity to enhance collaboration and cooperation for the preservation of coastal and marine ecosystems.