Navigating the Future: SUDIA Joins the Red Sea Turtle Conservation Effort
The Red Sea, a jewel of biodiversity, is home to a fascinating array of marine life, including several species of sea turtles. Recognising the critical need for their protection, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through the newly established General Organisation for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS), recently hosted its inaugural Symposium for the Conservation of Sea Turtles in the Red Sea. This auspicious event, held in Jeddah from November 3rd to 6th, 2024, marked the launch of SHAMS’s ambitious sea turtle conservation program along the Kingdom’s western coast and aimed to forge a vital collaborative network among partner organisations and stakeholders.
Under the inspiring theme, “Navigating the Future: Advancing Sea Turtle Conservation in the Red Sea through Science, Collaboration, and Innovation,” the symposium brought together over 90 academics and experts in environmental sciences and biodiversity conservation from ten different countries. Abdel-Rahman El-Mahdi, CEO of SUDIA (Sudanese Development Initiative), had the honour of participating in this crucial gathering and presenting SUDIA’s ongoing work within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Dungonab Bay and Mukkawar Island, located in Sudan’s Red Sea State.
SUDIA presentation focused on the unique conservation and management challenges within this vital Sudanese marine ecosystem, highlighting the rich biodiversity and the importance of integrated approaches to protect its natural heritage. Dungonab Bay and Mukkawar Island are ecological treasures and hold immense cultural significance for local communities. SUDIA’s work there underscores the interconnectedness of conservation efforts and the well-being of those who depend on these resources.
The symposium proved to be an invaluable platform for knowledge sharing and the development of concrete collaborative actions. Key takeaways and agreements among the participants included joining the IUCN's Marine Turtles Specialist Group (MTSG), with potential volunteers stepping forward to contribute their expertise. Furthermore, efforts would be made to ensure the Red Sea region is effectively represented within the By-catch Working Group of the Indian Ocean and South-East Asian (IOSEA) Marine Turtle Memorandum of Understanding, aiming to address the significant threat of accidental capture.
A particularly exciting outcome was the agreement to establish a sub-regional working group under the IOSEA Marine Turtles Task Force (MTTF), with Saudi Arabia’s secretariat taking the lead. Recognising the immediate need for action, an informal working group was also initiated, with SHAMS tasked with taking the initial steps in its organisation. SUDIA is proud to announce that we will serve as the focal point for this informal working group for the Red Sea region. This pivotal role will allow us to proactively build a local national network in Sudan, bringing together diverse stakeholders – from passionate sea turtle enthusiasts to dedicated conservation practitioners – who are eager to collaborate on protecting these magnificent creatures.
Beyond the positive collaborative outcomes, SUDIA's engagement at the symposium underscored challenges in Sudan's current participation within the IOSEA framework. Discussions with the IOSEA regional focal point and coordinator highlighted difficulties in maintaining active communication with the designated Sudan coordinator amidst the ongoing conflict. Recognising the importance of Sudan's contribution, SUDIA is committed to proactively facilitating improved connectivity and ensuring the nation's robust and meaningful engagement in future IOSEA initiatives.
The 1st Symposium for the Conservation of Sea Turtles in the Red Sea was a resounding success, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation essential for tackling the complex challenges facing these incredible animals. SUDIA is energized by the opportunities that have emerged and is committed to playing a central role in building a strong and effective network for sea turtle conservation within the Red Sea region, starting right here in Sudan. We believe that through science, collaboration, and innovative approaches, we can indeed navigate the future towards a more secure and thriving future for these ancient mariners of our seas.