At the 2026 edition of the Environmental DNA (eDNA) Training for Africa and the Adjacent Island States, 30 ocean experts from 14 Eastern and Southern Africa countries, including Early Ocean Career Professionals (#ECOPs), gathered at Pwani University in Kenya for an intensive hands-on training to gain experience in the entire eDNA process. With 439 key marine biodiversity areas, Africa and the Adjacent Island States are home to a rich diversity of ocean life. However, a substantial amount of this biodiversity remains undocumented. Environmental DNA allows scientists to detect species by analysing traces of DNA found in water. This provides a simple and cost-effective way to monitor marine biodiversity and protect ecosystems in the region, helping to strengthen regional capacity for marine biodiversity monitoring. Beyond technical skills, this training also supported researchers from across the continent to work together and advance ocean science by Africans, for Africans. This tr...