Grey's Anatomy star Kate Walsh arrives in Kenya for global ocean conservation summit

Renowned actress and ocean conservation advocate Kate Walsh is in Kenya to attend the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa.

Walsh, 58, best known for her roles in Grey’s Anatomy and films including Girls Trip, Kicking & Screaming and The Family Man, was received by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Blue Economy Betsy Njagi and Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Ali Joho ahead of the global meeting.

As an Oceana Ambassador, Walsh has built a strong international profile advocating for marine protection, with her visit underscoring the role public figures can play in advancing ocean action.

Njagi said Walsh’s presence highlights the need for collaboration between influencers, scientists and policymakers in safeguarding marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable ocean management.

“Her participation in the conference underscores the importance of bringing together leaders, advocates, scientists and influencers to advance meaningful action for our ocean,” she said.

She added that Walsh’s advocacy has helped raise awareness of marine conservation, including protection of endangered sea turtles and promotion of sustainable fisheries.

The 11th Our Ocean Conference, running from June 16 to 18 and being hosted in Africa for the first time, brings together governments, scientists, civil society, businesses and youth leaders under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future”.

Delegates will discuss marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, climate impacts, maritime security and the blue economy, with a focus on practical commitments and partnerships to strengthen ocean resilience.

Since its launch in 2014, the Our Ocean Conference has generated thousands of pledges and projects aimed at protecting marine life and promoting sustainable use of ocean resources.

Kenyan officials welcomed Walsh as a global conservation advocate whose campaigns to protect sea turtles and highlight threats facing marine life and coastal communities have drawn international attention.

Njagi said Kenya values such support and looks forward to discussions that will deepen commitments to a healthy and sustainable ocean for future generations.