The Africa Blue Economy Week 2024 set to boost inclusive and sustainable economic growth through tangible and actionable ways of advancing Africa’s blue economy was launched in Addis Ababa today.
Speaking on the occasion, AU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, Josefa Sacko said the water bodies of Africa such as ocean, sea, rivers, among others, have vast potentials to advance the blue economy of the continent.
They have also significant benefits for sustainable economic development, job creation, poverty alleviation and to achieve the African Union Agenda 2063.
In this regard, she pointed out that the African Union has been supporting member countries in creating awareness, capacity building and strengthening regional cooperation to use marine and fresh water bodies in environmental friendly and healthy manners.
However, the blue economy of the continent still is not without challenges and there is a need for collective efforts, empowering youth and
community with knowledge; and innovative approaches with investing marine science and technology.
For her part, UNDP Africa Regional Director Ahunna Eziakonwa stated the need for concerted efforts of stakeholders to unleash the vast potential of Africa in the blue economy to ensure economic development and prosperity of the continent.
According to her, the blue economy moves 1.5 trillion US dollars annually.
Africa can use its huge blue economic potential to boost its economy, create millions of jobs and to ensure its food security, she added.
UNDP will support hundred million dollars of initiatives for bio-diversity conservation marine and fresh water bodies of the continent in the effort to build resilience, inclusive and integrated blue economy of the continent.
The regional director further stressed that deepening regional integration and inclusivity of women and youth in blue economy is of paramount importance to boost the sector.
Norway’s Deputy Minister for International Development, Bjorg Sandk
Jaer said on her part that exploiting the blue economy Africa in integrated and sustainable manner is crucial for the present and future welfare and development of the continent.
Sustainable and manageable use of blue economy of Africa would provide solution for climate change, energy supply and food security, she added.
Jaer stated that Norway stands ready to collaborate with African Union and it has been a consistent partner for several years through support to the development of the Africa Blue Economy Strategy and supporting African expertise to the blue economy.
She underscored that Norway will continue to support to capacitate and enhance sustainable blue economy of the continent.
This year’s theme, ‘Empowering Africa’s Blue Renaissance’, highlights the need for collective effort and innovation to build a dynamic blue sector.
The Africa Blue Economy Week 2024 unites leaders from various sectors to foster dialogue, celebrate achievements and explore the blue economy’s role in advancing development g
oals such as poverty alleviation and climate resilience.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency