Connecting Deep-Sea Science Across Africa
Post-Event Impact – 13th WIOMSA Scientific Symposium, 2025
At the 13th WIOMSA Scientific Symposium, Angela Nyangwe of the African Network of Deep-water Researchers (ANDR) joined scientists, policymakers, and partners from across the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region to strengthen collaboration and spotlight the growing momentum around deep-sea research in Africa.
“My main scientific focus at WIOMSA was deep-sea research, especially benthic ecosystems. I attended to connect with scientists in the region and learn more about ongoing work in the Western Indian Ocean,” Angela shared. “I was also there to support the mini-symposium convened by the African Network of Deep-water Researchers.”
The event brought together researchers from across the region, revealing just how much deep-water expertise already exists in Africa – and how much opportunity there is for sharing ideas, standardising methods, and improving data accessibility.
“There was so much enthusiasm around deep-water research, which is exciting considering how little we still know about the WIO’s deep sea,” Angela reflected. “One big realization was the depth of expertise we have in the region… There are so many similar and related projects happening across different countries, hence a huge opportunity for us to share ideas.”
As an Early Career Researcher, Angela says being part of Challenger 150 provides valuable mentorship, collaboration, and networking opportunities. For ANDR, it brings global visibility and expert support for building a strong, inclusive, African-led deep-sea research community.
“Being part of Challenger 150 means access to mentorship, opportunities for collaboration, and great networking. For our network, it also brings valuable support from experienced deep-water scientists around the world, helping to build capacity for deep-water science in Africa and strengthen a truly inclusive, African-led community of researchers.”
The WIOMSA mini-symposium was a particularly powerful moment for connection and learning.
“It was really inspiring and pushed me to think beyond my usual comfort zone — the ‘why’ behind the knowledge,” she said. “I finally met so many WIO scientists whose names I had only seen in publications, and it was great hearing their ideas in person. Meeting some of our ANDR members face-to-face allowed us to inspire each other and talk about the future of deep-sea science in the region.”
Angela also highlighted the importance of engaging with policymakers and conservation partners:
“As a pure scientist, it was amazing to see firsthand how much science contributes to important decisions about conserving marine ecosystems.”
Looking ahead, the African Network of Deep-water Researchers is developing new proposals for Schmidt Ocean Institute cruises and reviewing deep-sea knowledge gaps and infrastructure in the Gulf of Guinea – efforts that continue to strengthen the region’s role in global deep-ocean science.
This story forms part of the Challenger 150 Post-Event Impact series, sharing reflections from activities and events advancing deep-sea research and collaboration under the UN Ocean Decade.