Accra: Ghana is set to present its Sustainable Ocean Plan (SOP) policy framework to the United Nations General Assembly by September 24, 2025. The plan aims to guide the sustainable production of ocean wealth while maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems and promoting equitable exploitation of ocean resources for coastal communities.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ebenezer Appah Sampong, Ghana's National Coordinator for SOP, highlighted during a national validation workshop in Accra that the country requires political will and financial investment to implement stakeholders' recommendations. The workshop was organized by the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Advisory Unit of the Office of the President.
Mr. Sampong stated that Ghana began gathering views on the SOP in 2023. He outlined key components of Ghana's Sustainable Ocean Plan, which include ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources such as fisheries, aquaculture, and ecotourism, as well as oil and gas resources. He emphasized that maintaining the health and productivity of ocean ecosystems would support biodiversity and ecosystem services.
He also stressed the importance of promoting equitable access to ocean resources for coastal communities and ensuring that benefits are shared inclusively. The potential inclusion of marine protected areas to conserve critical habitats and biodiversity was also discussed, along with integrating climate change considerations into ocean management to enhance resilience and adaptability.
Mr. Sampong underscored the necessity for a strong commitment from policymakers to support the implementation of the SOP. He emphasized the importance of securing sufficient funding to implement stakeholders' recommendations and achieve sustainable ocean management goals.
The United Nations has set a goal for countries to sustainably manage 30% of ocean resources by 2030 and 100% by 2050. Ghana's SOP aligns with this global objective, emphasizing the importance of integrated ocean management and sustainable practices.
