NEMC launches marine stakeholders’ forum to boost blue economy

DAR ES SALAAM: THE National Environmental Management Council (NEMC) has launched a platform for the country’s marine stakeholders to enable them to discuss sustainable ocean management, develop policies, and create opportunities within the blue economy.

Speaking at the inaugural Tanzania Marine Management Conference today, February 18, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, The Deputy Secretary-General for Zanzibar’s Blue Economy and Fisheries, Zahor Elkharousy said the objective of the platform is to unite stakeholders to address challenges and exchange ideas for the benefit of the ocean.

“We have called this meeting to engage various stakeholders involved in marine affairs, allowing them to discuss challenges and collaborate on ideas to ensure that we benefit from the ocean while also preserving it as required,” Elkharousy stated.

Adding, the Deputy Secretary-General from the Vice President’s Office (Environment), Christina Mndeme said the meeting is of great importance to the government, as the ocean plays a significant role in the country’s economic growth.

The conference will offer stakeholders an opportunity to share their experiences on how to effectively utilize the ocean.

Mndeme also commended the NEMC Director for initiating the platform, recognizing that it would greatly enhance the management of the marine sector and increase opportunities within the ocean.

“This meeting is crucial for the government, as we all understand that the ocean and its coastline are essential for the country’s economic development. In this meeting, we will exchange ideas and gain insights from different stakeholders. We aim to establish this crucial platform, believing that the ocean should be seen as the central pillar of the economy. It will also help in managing the marine sector on a larger scale and enhance various opportunities found in our oceans,” Mndeme remarked.

Dr Immaculate Semesi, the NEMC’s Director-General explained that the platform for marine and coastal resource management will bring together various government and non-government sectors, as well as development partners, to foster a sustainable blue economy with national benefits.

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Dr Semesi further highlighted, “Our marine ecosystems are under immense pressure, and immediate action is necessary. This conference offers a vital opportunity to integrate environmental management principles into marine management and policy creation.”

In retrospect, a Marine Science expert from Nelson Mandela University in Arusha, Dr Masumbuko Semba pointed out that such platforms are essential in helping people understand the ocean and the opportunities it offers.