The process for integrating ecosystem services into ecosystem-based management is currently one of the greatest challenges in the management of the marine and coastal resources in the Western Indian Ocean region. Priorities for the programme of work for the Nairobi Convention therefore include: integrated ecosystem-based management of marine and coastal ecosystems including transboundary resources; assessments and capacity development on the valuation of coastal and marine ecosystems to contribute to regional and global assessments; adaptation to climate change to reduce vulnerability and build resilience; and environmental governance to strengthen regional instruments for intergovernmental dialogue and the development of policies and laws for transboundary ecosystems.

The objectives of the meeting were to provide a forum for Montevideo IV Focal Points from Africa to: (a) Share and exchange information on latest developments, trends, and good practices in the development and enforcement of environmental law in their countries, as well as regionally and globally; (b) Contribute to UN Environment’s preparation of the assessment of the Montevideo Programme IV, including through sharing information on the status of implementation of the Montevideo Programme IV in their countries; and (c) Identify priorities from the region and proposals for the work of UN Environment in environmental law for the fifth ten-year programme period commencing from 2020.
The meeting also provided an important platform to increase partnerships and networks in the region for Montevideo Focal Points and other stakeholders working on environmental law issues.

List of Participants to the Expert Group Meeting on Promoting Integrated Approaches to Sustainable Development