IOCAFRICA Ocean-Climate Working Group 2026: A Strategic Call for Experts to Drive Africa’s Ocean and Climate Agenda

Apply for the IOCAFRICA Ocean-Climate Working Group 2026 and contribute to shaping Africa’s response to climate change through science, policy, and ocean-based solutions.

IOCAFRICA Invites Applications for Ocean-Climate Working Group 2026

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA) has officially opened a call for applications for its Ocean-Climate Working Group 2026, marking a significant step toward strengthening Africa’s response to climate change through ocean-focused strategies.

This initiative is designed as a high-level technical and strategic platform that will bring together leading experts from across the continent to address the growing intersection between ocean systems and climate change.

The Urgent Need for Ocean-Climate Action in Africa

Africa’s coastal and marine ecosystems are increasingly under threat from the accelerating impacts of climate change. With more than 30,000 kilometres of coastline and over 1.5 million square kilometres of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), millions of livelihoods depend directly on ocean health.

However, the continent continues to face major challenges, including extreme weather events, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and limited adaptive capacity. These challenges are compounded by gaps in scientific research, weak institutional coordination, and insufficient integration of ocean-based solutions into national climate strategies.

Recognizing these urgent needs, IOCAFRICA established the Ocean-Climate Working Group during its Eighth Session through Decision IOCAFRICA-VIII/4.6.

A Strategic Platform for Science, Policy, and Collaboration

The Working Group is structured to serve as a dedicated platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and policy development. It aligns with key frameworks such as the IOC Medium-Term Strategy (2022–2029), the Africa Climate Change and Resilient Development Strategy (2022–2032), and the Ocean Decade Africa Roadmap.

Its overarching goal is to support African countries in navigating the complex ocean–climate nexus by mobilizing expertise, strengthening regional coordination, and promoting evidence-based decision-making at national, regional, and global levels.

Key Objectives of the Working Group

The IOCAFRICA Ocean-Climate Working Group will play a central role in shaping Africa’s climate response through several core functions:

• Providing technical advice on ocean-climate interactions, including impacts on ecosystems and coastal communities
• Supporting the integration of ocean-based solutions into national climate frameworks such as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs)
• Assisting African delegations during United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change sessions by preparing technical and policy documents
• Representing IOCAFRICA at major global platforms such as COP meetings and the Ocean and Climate Change Dialogue
• Producing policy briefs, technical reports, and knowledge resources for decision-makers
• Facilitating capacity building through workshops, webinars, and mentorship programmes
• Identifying funding opportunities to support ocean-based climate initiatives across Africa

Through these activities, the Working Group aims to strengthen Africa’s voice in global climate negotiations and ensure that ocean priorities are fully integrated into climate policy.

Composition and Term of Service

The Working Group will consist of up to 15 selected experts, chosen through a competitive application process. Members will serve an initial two-year term from 2026 to 2028, with the possibility of renewal.

Selection will prioritize diversity across geography, gender, and generations, ensuring balanced representation from different regions and disciplines. This inclusive approach is intended to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

Areas of Expertise Sought

IOCAFRICA is inviting applications from experts with demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Ocean-Climate Science: Ocean warming, acidification, deoxygenation, and sea-level rise
• Marine Ecosystems and Blue Carbon: Coastal ecosystems such as mangroves and seagrasses and their role in carbon storage
• Ocean Observations and Data: Monitoring systems, data infrastructure, and climate modelling
• Coastal Adaptation and Livelihoods: Community resilience and socio-economic impacts
• Policy, Governance and Negotiations: Climate policy, marine planning, and international negotiations
• Ocean Finance and Economy: Blue finance, climate investment mechanisms, and risk management

Applicants with interdisciplinary expertise are particularly encouraged, especially those working at the intersection of science, policy, and implementation.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the thematic areas
• Active affiliation with a recognised institution such as a government agency, research body, or civil society organisation
• Availability to commit to the full two-year term, including quarterly virtual meetings and at least one in-person meeting annually

While prior experience with UNFCCC processes is an advantage, it is not mandatory. The programme welcomes both seasoned professionals and emerging experts with strong technical or applied experience.

Importantly, early-career researchers, women scientists, and experts from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and underrepresented regions are strongly encouraged to apply.

Expected Contributions from Members

Selected members will actively contribute to advancing Africa’s ocean-climate agenda through:

• Participation in regular meetings and collaborative activities
• Development of policy briefs, technical reports, and flagship publications
• Support for African delegations at international climate events
• Integration of ocean-based solutions into national climate strategies
• Engagement in capacity-building initiatives and thematic working groups
• Submission of periodic activity reports

Members may also lead specific outputs based on their expertise, including policy papers and technical analyses.

Travel and participation costs for official in-person meetings will be supported, subject to available resources.

Application and Selection Process

Interested experts are invited to submit their applications through the official online platform.

📅 Application Deadline: 29 May 2026

Applications will be reviewed by a selection panel coordinated by the IOCAFRICA Secretariat in consultation with partner institutions. Selection will be based on expertise, experience, diversity, and potential contribution to the Working Group.

Successful applicants will be notified by 10 June 2026.

Conclusion: A Defining Opportunity for Climate Leadership

The IOCAFRICA Ocean-Climate Working Group 2026 presents a unique opportunity for experts to contribute to one of Africa’s most critical development priorities. By bridging science, policy, and practice, the initiative aims to strengthen the continent’s resilience to climate change while advancing sustainable ocean management.

For professionals committed to climate action, marine conservation, and policy innovation, this Working Group offers a powerful platform to influence decision-making and drive long-term impact across Africa and beyond.

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