Ocean Innovation Side Event which will take place during CHOGM 2026. Photo: The UWI
The Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE) at The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus has officially launched its Blue Finance and Ocean Innovation Side Event, which is scheduled to take place during the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November.
According to a press release, the announcement was made on June 16 during the 11th Our Ocean Conference. The launch took place as part of a partner updates segment at the Commonwealth Ocean Ministers Roundtable, hosted by the government of Kenya and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
It further stated that Dr. Branson Belle, Executive Director of COBE, introduced attendees to the work of the UWI Five Islands Campus and the Centre before outlining plans for the Blue Finance and Ocean Innovation Side Event that will be held alongside CHOGM.
Organizers say the event will begin with an exhibition showcasing ocean conservation initiatives from local, regional, and international organizations. Following the exhibition, participants will engage in a discussion described as a “beachside chat,” moderated by Charles Goddard of Economist Impact. The discussion is expected to feature chief executive officers and other leaders involved in blue finance and ocean innovation.
The programme will also include presentations from heads of government before concluding with a reception, as per the release.
The UWI reports that ocean restoration and sustainable ocean use remain major priorities for the Commonwealth. Commonwealth member countries collectively oversee approximately one-third of the world’s ocean under national jurisdiction, contain 45 percent of the world’s coral reefs, and include 25 Small Island Developing States.
The release also noted that Commonwealth nations adopted the Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration in 2024, committing to urgent action aimed at protecting and restoring the world’s oceans.
Organizers say the Blue Finance and Ocean Innovation Side Event is intended to highlight the critical role oceans play in supporting economies and livelihoods throughout the Commonwealth while encouraging increased investment in ocean conservation and innovative blue economy initiatives.
The event is being organized by COBE in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
