EU, Germany launch 49bn/- blue economy project

DAR ES SALAAM: THE European Union (EU) and Germany have launched a 16.5 million-euro (about 49bn/-) blue economy programme, targeting tourism and aquaculture as key sectors with potential to drive sustainable economic growth.

Dubbed StawiBluu, the initiative includes 15 million euros (44bn/-) from the EU and 1.5 million euros (4bn/-) from Germany and is being implemented by the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) in Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

The project seeks to help blue economy businesses access finance, markets, skills and new opportunities.

It was launched yesterday during the 12th Conference of Parties of the Nairobi Convention (COP12) at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam.

Speaking during the launching ceremony, Ambassador-designate of the European Union to Tanzania and the East African Community, Mr Jean-Marc Pisani, said through the Global Gateway and Team Europe approach, the EU was deepening its partnership with Tanzania by bringing together Tanzanian and European public institutions, businesses and investors to unlock blue economy opportunities.

“StawiBluu is part of this effort, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, especially women and young people, while strengthening links with European businesses and expertise,” Amb Pisani said.

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The project focuses on tourism and aquaculture in destinations including Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, Unguja, Pemba and Mafia.

The programme is expected to strengthen local value chains and provide practical support to businesses through business development, investment readiness, access to finance, market connections and skills development.

It will also support more sustainable production, processing and value addition in aquaculture and mariculture, as well as more sustainable and diversified tourism products and services, while promoting the sustainable use of coastal and marine resources.

Ambassador-designate of the Federal Republic of Germany, Ms Annett Guenther, said through StawiBluu, German Development Cooperation and the EU were supporting Tanzanian businesses and entrepreneurs to strengthen their operations, develop sustainable products and services and turn new ideas into viable opportunities.

“Businesses need the right skills, access to finance and connections to markets. We want to see more Tanzanian businesses able to grow while creating jobs and protecting the coastal and marine environment,” she said.