OCEAN INNOVATION AFRICA SUMMIT DAY TWO: FROM PLENARY INSIGHTS TO ACTIONABLE OUTCOMES
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
24 MARCH 2026
The INkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre has today been transformed into a dynamic hub for the regenerative blue economy as day two of the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit reaches its peak.
Today’s programme shifted from high-level plenary discussions to practical engagements, positioning Durban as a key player in Africa’s maritime development.
Today’s activities featured immersive technology showcases, highlighting innovative solutions aimed at reshaping how people engage with the ocean.
A significant focus has also been on the summit’s dedicated B2B engagement platform, where face-to-face meetings between global investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers are taking place.
These engagements are facilitating the partnerships and investment needed to advance Africa’s blue economy.
The summit also moved into a series of targeted workshops designed to translate strategy into tangible outcomes.
Key sessions included the Municipality’s Blue Finance workshop, Artificial Intelligence for Good initiatives, and the UNDP + AUC Accelerator Programme Validation.
These engagements are aimed at bridging the gap between international frameworks and local economic opportunities.
Takalani Rathiyaya from the Economic Development Directorate emphasised the importance of the summit as a catalyst for local growth.
“The Ocean Innovation Africa Summit is one of the City Manager’s flagship programmes. Our biggest asset is our ocean, and our residents must benefit from this dialogue,” he said.
He added: “These workshops align directly with the Blue Charter, ensuring that the Municipality implements tangible programmes to empower local businesses.”
The outcomes of today’s engagements demonstrate that the summit is evolving beyond a platform for dialogue into a space for collaboration and opportunity.
By connecting international investment with local capability and innovation, the event is reinforcing Durban’s position within the global blue economy.
As the summit continues, the focus remains on ensuring that investment in the ocean economy translates into sustainable local development, job creation, and the protection of vital marine resources.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.
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