World Oceans Day 2023: Advancing Sustainability through Arts and Dialogue
On 8th June, ICE Institute hosted a fireside chat and art exhibition to commemorate World Oceans Day. The event aimed to deeply understand the state of Somali oceans and raise awareness of ways to conserve and promote the tides of the ever-changing ocean since Somalia has the longest coast in Africa which rich resources and the marina ecosystem is under existential threat due to illegal fishing, toxic dumping, and poor sustainable practices. The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including youth leaders, environmentalists, government practitioners, and entrepreneurs. Participants sparked exchanging ideas, stories, and meaningful connections.
The Fireside Chat
The fireside chat served as a centrepiece of the event, featuring two keynote speakers who shared their expertise and insights on Somali oceans. Mr Abdirahman Dirie, the head of Marine at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of the Federal Republic of Somalia, delivered a compelling speech. He discussed the current state of Somali oceans, highlighting the challenges and emphasizing the crucial role of individuals and institutions in preserving the natural ecosystem. Mr Dirie emphasized the importance of sustainable practices and conservation efforts for a better future.
Dr Elmi Leyth, a researcher from the Center for Community Health in the United States, provided valuable insights into the issue of toxic dumping in Somali oceans. He discussed the harmful impacts of this practice on marine life and the urgent need for authorities to implement environmentally friendly policies. Dr. Elmi challenged all the relevant stakeholders including the government, local communities, and the participants to take an active role in advocating for nature-based regulations and sustainable solutions to protect the oceans.
The fireside chat, moderated by Mr. Mohamed Okash, Director of ICE Institute, served as an engaging platform for environmentalists to park ideas and information about the oceans. Alongside, the chat, Tasniim Gaashan and Najib Wehlie address the participants as they are part of the organizing team of the event.
Arts Exhibition
The art exhibition showcased various art pieces that highlighted the natural beauty of Somalia and its oceans. More than eight artworks were displayed, featuring vibrant colours and creative expressions. One art piece that drew significant attention portrayed the beach cleaning activities at Lido, which occur every Friday with the active involvement of various youth groups, including the Green Champions at SIMAD University.
This artwork captured the essence of community-driven efforts to clean and protect beaches and oceans. It conveyed a powerful message, inspiring participants to recognize their role in environmental stewardship. Additionally, five young artists contributed their artworks, offering unique perspectives and artistic expressions that further enriched the exhibition. Tarikh Adam, a Green Champion from SIMAD University, accompanied the exhibition and provided explanations of the artworks to the interested participants. His insightful commentary added context and depth to the displayed art pieces, sparking meaningful conversations and fostering a deeper appreciation for the importance of ocean conservation. Participants thoroughly enjoyed the exhibition, immersing themselves in the artistic atmosphere. Many took photographs alongside the artworks, appreciating the creativity and the powerful messages they conveyed.
Building Bonds
The World Oceans Day Celebration served as a platform for diverse participants to come together, fostering connections and building bonds to facilitate collaboration in climate action and ocean conservation. Participants engaged in discussions beyond the formal sessions, exchanging contact information, and exploring opportunities for joint initiatives and future cooperation.
The event created an environment conducive to networking and partnership-building. Participants from different sectors, including youth leaders, environmentalists, government practitioners, and entrepreneurs, found common ground as environmentalists and shared their experiences, ideas, and visions for a sustainable Somalia. The connections formed during the event have the potential to lead to future collaborations and collective efforts in taking bold climate action and advancing ocean conservation in Somalia and beyond.
Conclusion
The ICE Institute’s Oceans Day Celebration was a creatively captivating platform for environmentalist raising awareness about the state of Somali oceans and promoting sustainability through art expression and informative discussions. The event was closed by our guest of honour, Mohamed Adan Dugow, the public relations director of Villa Somalia. In his remarks, he applauded the institute’s efforts on Advancing sustainability and ecofriendly practices or policies requiring a community-centred approach to engagement and that is what ICE Institute will continue to provide all the stakeholders.
