Africa-Press – Eswatini. Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini says maritime corridors are critical for connecting the Eswatini economy to global markets, describing oceans as “a lifeline for global trade, food security, and climate resilience.”
The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu represented the Kingdom of Eswatini at the opening ceremony of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France.
The conference, themed “Africa for the Ocean,” aims to catalyse urgent action for the protection and sustainable use of our oceans, a vital resource for ecological balance and economic prosperity.
The Prime Minister addressed the assembly with a profound sense of honour, stating, “It is a profound honour to address this esteemed gathering at the ‘Africa for the Ocean’ Summit, convened under the visionary leadership of the Kingdom of Morocco and the French Republic.”
His words conveyed Eswatini’s commitment to engaging in critical dialogues surrounding sustainable ocean governance, emphasising the importance of this shared heritage for both Africa and the world.
Despite being a landlocked nation, Eswatini recognises the crucial role that maritime spaces play in its economic framework.
Dlamini articulated this perspective, noting, “Our vision for a developed, inclusive, and prosperous Kingdom, as outlined in Government’s Programme of Action (PoA) for 2024-2029, aligns seamlessly with the objectives of this Summit.”
He highlighted the nation’s commitment to transformative economic growth, sustainable development, and regional integration, all of which resonate with the summit’s goals to harness Africa’s maritime potential.
The PM underscored the significance of oceans as a lifeline for global trade and food security, stating, “For Eswatini, access to maritime corridors is critical to connecting our economy to global markets.”
He praised initiatives such as the Atlantic African States Initiative and Morocco’s efforts to enhance access for Sahelian countries, emphasizing the need for equitable connectivity for landlocked nations.
The Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu following the proceedings during the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference Opening ceremony in Nice, France on Monday.
“These efforts underscore the importance of regional cooperation in ensuring that all African states, coastal and landlocked alike, can leverage the blue economy for sustainable development,” he added.
In alignment with the “Nkwe Mandate” from His Majesty King Mswati III, Dlamini reaffirmed Eswatini’s ambitious goal of achieving a 12 per cent GDP growth target by 2029.
He explained that while the nation’s focus is primarily terrestrial, the health of oceans directly impacts agricultural productivity and food sovereignty, key pillars of Eswatini’s national strategy.
“Our efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and promote organic farming depend on stable global ecosystems, which are intricately tied to healthy oceans,” he stated.
The Prime Minister also addressed the pressing challenges facing the oceans, including overfishing, pollution, and climate change.
He emphasised Eswatini’s commitment to supporting African-led initiatives that promote cooperation and investment in marine protected areas and sustainable fisheries.
“Development that disregards the environment is shortsighted and costly,” he cautioned, urging collective action to combat the environmental crises exacerbated by ocean degradation.
Dlamini highlighted the issue of plastic pollution, which poses a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems.
He stated, “Comprehensive bans on single-use plastics are essential to halt this damage,” and proudly noted Eswatini’s ban on single-use plastic bags.
He called for international cooperation in technology, research, and capacity building, expressing the nation’s commitment to advocating for green financing at the upcoming Global Plastic Treaty Conference in Geneva.
In closing, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Eswatini’s dedication to Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources.
He expressed gratitude to France and Morocco for co-hosting the conference and emphasized the need for future African summits to be held on African soil, reflecting the continent’s resolve to address its challenges.
“Through our land-linked connectivity and proactive measures, Eswatini stands ready to contribute to healthier oceans and a sustainable planet,” he concluded.
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