Angola hosts International Conference on Marine Sciences to address climate impacts on fisheries

The National Institute for Fisheries and Marine Research (INIPM) of Angola will host the International Conference on Marine Sciences on March 24-25, 2025, at the HCTA Hotel in Luanda. This significant event aims to address critical challenges facing Angola's coastal ecosystems and fisheries sector amid increasing climate pressures. Two main objectives have been defined: to assess how fishing pressure and climate events affect pelagic species like sardinella, which are vital to Angola's economy; and to develop plans for an early warning system using satellite data and coastal observations to monitor ecosystem health and predict climate impacts on fisheries. Experts from multiple countries like Portugal, Norway, Germany, the United States, South Africa, and Senegal will also take part. These international experts will share global perspectives that can be locally applied to Angola’s specific marine challenges, fostering a valuable exchange of knowledge. Two key deliverables are expected from this conference: a comprehensive report on the impact of extreme events on the distribution pattern of fishery resources, with emphasis on sardinella species, and reference terms for developing an operational early warning system for extreme climate events in support of Angolan fisheries. The agenda includes panels on "Socioeconomic Impacts of Extreme Climate Events," "Coastal Ocean Climate Variability in Angolan Tropical Upwelling," "Mechanisms Determining Ecosystem Productivity Stability and Change," and "Evolution of Abundance and Distribution Patterns of Major Pelagic Fish Stocks in Response to Climate Variability and Fishing Pressure." During the final panel on "Development and Institutional Capacity", scheduled for March 25, a presentation on the AIR Centre and its thematic programs will be delivered by Mafalda Carapuço (Deputy Executive Director). The AIR Centre’s expertise in satellite observation and climate monitoring aligns with Angola’s goals for developing early warning systems for extreme climate events. This partnership highlights the importance of global cooperation in addressing climate challenges. The conference will strengthen Angola's growing role in marine research while building local capacity to sustainable ocean resources management. This collaboration exemplifies how international partnerships can help coastal nations develop tailored solutions to climate challenges, balancing environmental conservation with economic stability. AIR Centre not only provides technical expertise but also connects Angola to wider Atlantic research networks, creating lasting pathways for scientific exchange and innovation in marine resource management.