Building knowledge, capacity, and partnerships for sustainable coastal and marine ecosystems

Resilience in the South-Western Indian Ocean (RECOS) Program Support

The critical need to safeguard coastal ecosystems across the Indian Ocean islands while empowering communities to adapt to climate change is more pressing than ever. The Indian Ocean Commission and regional partners have worked to strengthen governance, foster scientific collaboration, and promote sustainable practices that protect both biodiversity and livelihoods. In support of these goals, they established the Resilience in the South-Western Indian Ocean (RECOS) project.

The Indian Ocean Commission has engaged our team to assist in designing a continuous program of capacity building, connecting science to policy and practice through regional networks and thematic working groups. We are also providing technical expertise to improve governance, support transparency, inform decision-making, and foster inclusive participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups in coastal and marine ecosystem resilience. Project highlights include measurable improvements in coastal governance, the launch of pilot restoration projects, and creation of a robust framework for regional cooperation.

Through this effort, the Indian Ocean Commission is helping shape a future where coastal and marine ecosystems can thrive and communities can prosper.