Tanzania has secured the opportunity to host the 12th Conference of the Parties (COP12) to the Nairobi Convention, marking another milestone in the country's growing role in environmental governance and the sustainable development of marine resources. Scheduled to take place from October 6–9, 2026, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, the conference is expected to bring together government leaders, environmental experts, researchers, investors and development partners from across the Western Indian Ocean region.
The announcement reflects increasing international confidence in Tanzania's commitment to marine conservation and its leadership in advancing the blue economy agenda. The country previously chaired the Nairobi Convention's Bureau following COP11, held in Madagascar in 2024, paving the way for its selection as the next host.
Speaking on the development, Deputy Minister in the Vice President's Office (Union and Environment), Reuben Nhamanilo Kwigila, said the decision demonstrates the trust the international community has placed in Tanzania's environmental leadership.
"Hosting COP12 reflects the confidence the international community has in Tanzania's leadership in marine environmental management," he said.
The Nairobi Convention is a regional agreement that promotes the protection, management and sustainable use of the marine and coastal environment in the Western Indian Ocean. Member states collaborate on addressing challenges such as marine pollution, biodiversity loss, coastal degradation and climate change while encouraging sustainable economic activities linked to ocean resources.
For Tanzania, hosting COP12 comes at a time when the government is placing greater emphasis on the blue economy as a driver of economic growth. The country's extensive coastline along the Indian Ocean presents significant opportunities in fisheries, maritime transport, tourism, aquaculture, renewable ocean energy and marine biotechnology.
The conference is expected to provide an important platform for discussing policies that balance environmental conservation with economic development. Delegates will explore innovative approaches to protecting marine ecosystems while ensuring that coastal communities continue to benefit from ocean resources through sustainable practices.
Beyond environmental discussions, the event is also expected to generate economic activity within Tanzania. Hundreds of international delegates are anticipated to travel to Dar es Salaam, creating increased demand for hotels, conference facilities, transport services, restaurants and tourism operators. Local businesses involved in event management, hospitality and logistics are also likely to benefit from the influx of visitors.
Experts believe that hosting major international conferences can strengthen a country's global reputation and attract future partnerships and investment opportunities. By serving as the venue for COP12, Tanzania has an opportunity to showcase its ongoing conservation initiatives, infrastructure development and commitment to regional cooperation.
The meeting also aligns with broader continental and global efforts to promote sustainable ocean governance under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas and marine resources.
As preparations begin for the 2026 conference, stakeholders are expected to work together to ensure the event delivers meaningful outcomes for both environmental protection and economic development. The gathering offers Tanzania an opportunity not only to facilitate important regional dialogue but also to position itself as a leading destination for blue economy investment and innovation in Africa.
With global attention turning toward sustainable use of marine resources, hosting COP12 reinforces Tanzania's ambition to transform its coastline into a catalyst for inclusive economic growth while safeguarding the ecosystems that support millions of livelihoods.
"The future of the blue economy depends on protecting our oceans while creating sustainable opportunities for people and businesses alike."