by Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN)—On September 2, 2024, St. Kitts and Nevis became the 12th nation to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM) for the Wider Caribbean. The agreement is intended to enhance regional coordination on ocean governance and sustainable resource management.
The Hon. Dr Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment, signed the MOU and commented, “The OCM promotes collaboration to boost ocean management and drive a sustainable blue economy. This step supports our vision of becoming a Sustainable Island State (SISA), enhancing our resilience to climate change and fostering sustainable growth.”
The OCM is a platform to improve collaboration between regional governments and organisations in managing ocean resources, protecting marine ecosystems, and supporting sustainable economic activities. St. Kitts and Nevis’ participation is consistent with the national Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA), which focuses on climate resilience and sustainable development.
This signing follows the Tenth Meeting of the OECS Council of Ministers on Environmental Sustainability, where member states agreed to support the operationalisation of the OCM. The initiative is supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) through the PROCARIBE+ Project. These partnerships aim to address environmental challenges, particularly those affecting coastal communities.
With the inclusion of St. Kitts and Nevis, the OCM now includes seven Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs) and twelve countries, including members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The initiative aims to strengthen coordination on ocean governance, environmental protection, and regional development.
Key Points:
- St. Kitts and Nevis is the 12th nation to sign the Ocean Coordination Mechanism MOU for the Wider Caribbean.
- The OCM aims to improve regional cooperation on ocean governance and marine ecosystem management.
- The signing aligns with the nation’s Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA).
- The OCM is supported by GEF, UNDP, and UNOPS through the PROCARIBE+ Project.
The signing of the MOU represents a step toward improved regional collaboration on ocean management and environmental sustainability in the Wider Caribbean region.
