MarCNOWA Successfully Trained CICOS Countries on Coastal and Marine Resource Management in Brazzaville
Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, July 12, 2024 – The highly anticipated regional workshop aimed at strengthening the expertise of coastal and marine resource management professionals concluded today with resounding success. This three-day event, part of the Natural Resource Management in Central Africa (GERNAC) project under Phase II of the GMES & Africa program, was hosted at the Léon Hôtel de la Paix.
Group picture of some Participants, CICOS team led by Dr. Marie-Therese Itongo, and Trainers from the University of Ghana
Empowering Experts through Specialized Training
The University of Ghana played a pivotal role in delivering high-quality training throughout the workshop. Esteemed trainers Mr. Ignatius Kweku Williams and Mr. Daniel Quarshie led comprehensive sessions designed to enhance the participants' skills in using Earth Observation (EO) data for effective marine and coastal resource management.
Training Highlights and Focus Areas
Over the course of the workshop, Mr. Williams and Mr. Quarshie provided both theoretical and practical training, focusing on the following key areas:
Monitoring and Forecasting Oceanographic Variables: Participants learned advanced techniques for tracking and predicting changes in ocean conditions, essential for sustainable marine resource management.
Surveillance and Protection of Fishing Zones: The training emphasized methods to monitor and safeguard fishing areas, including strategies to combat illegal fishing activities.
Mapping and Evaluating Coastal Zones: Attendees gained hands-on experience in using EO data for detailed coastal mapping and assessment, crucial for mitigating vulnerabilities and supporting coastal zone management.
Mr Ignatius Williams with some participants
Participants and Outcomes
The workshop brought together representatives from six coastal countries in Central Africa, including Cameroon, DR Congo, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Sao Tome and Principe. Each country was represented by at least two experts selected for their strong IT skills, background in oceanography, remote sensing, and GIS knowledge.
Participants left the workshop with enhanced capabilities in utilizing EO data for various aspects of marine and coastal management. Certificates of participation were awarded to all attendees, marking their successful completion of the training modules.
A training session with the participants
A Follow-Up to the MoU Signed in Egypt
This training is a significant follow-up to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the University of Ghana and CICOS during the First GMES and Africa Phase 2 Forum held in Egypt in November 2023. The MoU, a result of the cross-fertilization efforts of the African Union , marked the beginning of a new era in environmental collaboration. The partnership aims to leverage UG's expertise in Earth observation and marine resource monitoring to benefit Central African countries.
Looking Ahead
The success of this workshop underscores the importance of regional collaboration and capacity building in addressing the challenges of coastal and marine resource management. The GMES & Africa program, through initiatives like this, continues to foster sustainable practices and empower professionals across the continent.