The initiative aims to safeguard marine habitats, fish populations and endangered species. Authorities said the protected area will also help strengthen climate resilience and support local communities that depend on marine resources for livelihoods and food security.

Credits: Unsplash; Author: Yoel Winkler;

The marine protected area forms part of broader conservation efforts across West Africa to address overfishing, habitat loss and environmental pressure on coastal ecosystems. Conservation groups said protected marine zones can support biodiversity recovery and improve long-term fish stocks when combined with sustainable resource management and community involvement.