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Angola has earned widespread recognition for its leadership and commitment in hosting the International Conference on Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture (CIPAS 2025) — a landmark gathering dedicated to advancing responsible fishing practices and promoting sustainable aquaculture across Southern Africa.
Held under the theme “Responsible Fishing and Sustainable Aquaculture: A Challenge, a Commitment, a Mission Uniting the Nation,” the event formed an integral part of Angola’s celebrations marking 50 years of independence. The conference brought together policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, and development partners to deliberate on collective strategies for the sustainable management of marine and aquatic resources.
The conference was officially inaugurated by Dr José de Lima Massano, Angola’s Minister of State for Economic Coordination, who underscored the nation’s dedication to regional cooperation in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Blue Economy. The event attracted representatives from governments, regional organizations, international agencies, academia, and the private sector, highlighting the need for unified action in managing shared marine ecosystems.
Representing the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Angele Makombo N’Tumba, Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration, participated as a panellist in the plenary session on Sustainable Fisheries, Climate, and International Cooperation. She commended Southern Africa’s abundant marine biodiversity but warned of growing pressures from overfishing, illegal and unregulated fishing, habitat loss, and the effects of climate change. She also pointed to challenges such as limited access to sustainable financing and technology, which hinder the region’s capacity to transition to more sustainable aquatic food systems.
Among other distinguished speakers were Dr Carmen Sacramento Nato, Angola’s Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, and Dr Albano Vicente Lopes Ferreira, Minister of Higher Education, who both reiterated Angola’s commitment to strengthening human capacity and scientific research in the sector. Delegates from Spain’s fisheries sector and other international partners shared experiences on advancing cross-border cooperation and implementing best practices for responsible aquaculture.
A central message emerging from the conference was the importance of inclusive governance in achieving sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Participants stressed the need to engage local communities, fisherfolk, women, and civil society organizations in policy making and resource management. Strengthening institutional capacities, enhancing transparency, and promoting equitable benefit-sharing were also identified as critical pillars for achieving sustainability.
By hosting CIPAS 2025, Angola not only commemorated its Golden Jubilee of Independence but also reaffirmed its leadership and solidarity within the Southern African region. The nation showcased its commitment to advancing the Blue Economy, particularly through sustainable aquatic food systems that are essential for food security, job creation, and economic growth.
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The SADC Secretariat extended appreciation to its international partners for their collaboration and financial support—especially the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), through GIZ, for their contribution under the Global Programme Sustainable Aquatic Food, which forms part of the broader initiative on Transformation of Agricultural and Food Systems in Southern Africa.
Through this milestone event, Angola has positioned itself as a regional leader and advocate for sustainable ocean stewardship, setting the tone for a more resilient and inclusive future for fisheries and aquaculture in Africa.
