Durban is set to host Ocean Innovation Africa (OIA) 2026, bringing together global and African leaders to accelerate investment, partnerships and action across the continent’s ocean economy.
Held in partnership with the eThekwini Municipality at the Durban International Convention Centre, the summit will position Africa at the forefront of the shift toward a regenerative blue economy by convening policymakers, investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, development finance institutions and community leaders.
As host city and main partner, eThekwini Municipality says the event reflects Durban’s growing leadership in coastal management, maritime innovation and climate resilience planning, reinforcing the metro’s role as a continental hub for ocean innovation and investment.
“With more than 38 coastal and island states and a rapidly expanding ocean economy, Africa has a unique opportunity to lead a regenerative model that restores ecosystems and drives equitable economic growth,” said Alexis Grosskopf, founder of OceanHub Africa and spokesperson for Ocean Innovation Africa.
Unlike traditional conferences, Ocean Innovation Africa operates as an action platform focused on turning commitments into measurable outcomes through partnerships, investment coordination and solution-driven collaboration.
The programme will spotlight regenerative blue business models, innovative finance pathways, marine protection, community resilience and pan-African innovation ecosystems, alongside business-to-business matchmaking, investor dialogues and solution-focused workshops.
Following the public summit, an invitation-only Ocean Impact Retreat will bring together selected stakeholders to deepen alignment across finance, policy, science and implementation, ensuring momentum translates into tangible next steps.
Founded in 2019, Ocean Innovation Africa connects science, policy, finance and communities to accelerate climate resilience, ecosystem restoration and inclusive growth across Africa’s ocean economy.
