IMPAC 6: at La Somone, Senegal launches the countdown to a global meeting to protect the oceans

On 26 March 2026, Senegal officially launched the countdown to the International Marine Protected Areas Congress (IMPAC 6), scheduled for 22-26 March 2027 in Dakar, through a «One Year to Go» event organised at the Somone Marine Protected Area. This ceremony marks a strategic step in the preparations for this global event dedicated to ocean conservation and sustainable coastal zone management.

A strong signal one year ahead of a global event

Taking the floor in this symbolic setting, the Senegalese Minister for the Environment and Ecological Transition, El Hadji Abdourahmane Diouf, emphasised the exceptional significance of this moment. He stressed that this launch was not just a milestone on the calendar, but the starting point for a national and international dynamic.

In exactly one year's time, Senegal will have the «immense privilege» of hosting IMPAC 6, an event that will bring together the world's key players involved in protecting the oceans. He described the congress as a powerful symbol of international cooperation, shared responsibility and collective commitment in the face of the threats to marine ecosystems.

La Somone, a showcase for Senegal's biodiversity and ambitions

The choice of the Somone Marine Protected Area to host this launch is highly significant. The minister pointed out that this emblematic site embodies the exceptional richness of Senegal's marine and coastal biodiversity, while illustrating the country's ongoing efforts to preserve it.

Through this concrete example, the authorities aim to demonstrate that it is possible to reconcile environmental protection, local development and the sustainable use of natural resources. La Somone is a model of balance between conservation and economic activities, particularly eco-tourism.

An all-out effort to make IMPAC 6 a success

The «One Year to Go» event aims to trigger large-scale mobilisation. For the Minister, it is a call to unite all stakeholders - public institutions, NGOs, researchers, technical and financial partners - around a common ambition: to make IMPAC 6 a resounding success.

He stressed the need for a collective commitment, at national, regional and international levels, to position Africa, through Senegal, as a major player in ocean governance over the long term.

A dynamic within a strategic national context

This mobilisation comes in a particular national context, marked by the imminent celebration of National Youth Week 2026, which will culminate in the 66ᵉ anniversary of Senegal's independence.

The minister pointed out that this convergence of timetables highlights a central priority: young people. In the vision put forward by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, young people are both the heirs and the actors in the preservation of our natural heritage.

He stressed the need to offer them the means, opportunities and inspiration to become fully involved in protecting the oceans.

Dakar 2026 YOG and IMPAC 6: a double international showcase

The launch of this countdown is also part of the run-up to the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, another major event for Senegal.

According to the minister, the theme of the parade on 4 April 2026, which focuses on «the defence and security forces as partners of the YOG», reflects an essential synergy between institutions, young people and major international events. He also emphasised the importance of guaranteeing a secure, inclusive and well-organised framework for hosting these major events.

Asserting African leadership on the scene international

Through the joint organisation of IMPAC 6 in 2027 and the Dakar 2026 YOG, Senegal is positioning itself at a strategic crossroads. The country is asserting its ambition to be not only a host country, but also a committed, innovative and responsible player on the international stage.

The Minister pointed out that the congress should bring together almost 3,000 participants from at least 50 countries, from 22 to 27 March 2027. Mobilisation on this scale requires rigorous preparation and flawless coordination.

A structuring partnership with IUCN

With this in mind, the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a key step. This partnership aims to strengthen the involvement of international NGOs and ensure the active participation of players from the South.

The aim is twofold: to ensure the organisational success of the congress and to promote a balanced representation of the different regions of the world in the discussions on ocean governance.

A solemn call for collective commitment

Finally, the Minister for the Environment made a strong appeal to all stakeholders. He urged them to mobilise their energies, strengthen their partnerships and unite their efforts to make IMPAC 6 a decisive turning point in the protection of the oceans.

Under the coordination of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, Senegal intends to build a sustainable legacy for the benefit of future generations, local communities and the environment.