Forum calls for inclusive management of ocean resources

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with development stakeholders in the fisheries and marine sectors to promote inclusive management of ocean resources and enhance the participation of women and youth in Africa’s Blue Economy.

Coordinator at the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries, Eng Omar Saleh Muhammed, made the assurance during the official closing of a three-day regional forum on the development of the marine sector held here in Zanzibar.

The forum was organised through a partnership between the Zanzibar Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries, TradeMark Africa, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat and the Mastercard Foundation.

It brought together stakeholders including fishers, researchers, policymakers, investors and development organisations from across the East African region.

Eng Muhammed said the forum concluded with key resolutions aimed at increasing investment in marine infrastructure, developing inclusive policies that enable women and youth to play active roles in fisheries and marine-related ventures and establishing joint marketing and financing systems across the region and the African continent at large.

“We’ve discussed both the challenges and opportunities. Now is the time for action. Women and youth are not just beneficiaries, they are leaders in driving Africa’s Blue Economy transformation,” he said.

He added that the forum focused on how best to implement a five-year project designed to empower women and youth in the Indian Ocean region, ensuring they benefit meaningfully from marine resources.

He noted that women and youth are heavily involved in activities such as fishing, seaweed farming and aquaculture and the government will continue providing them with training and tools to enhance their economic empowerment.

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Forum participants stressed that no meaningful transformation of the Blue Economy is possible without recognising women and youth as agents of change.

They called for the creation of a dedicated empowerment fund, along with innovation hubs and marine technology training centres.

“For the first time, we’ve been given a platform to be heard. We’ve gained new skills in marine entrepreneurship and we leave here with knowledge that can change our communities,” said Khatib Hussein Kombo, one of the participants.

Mr Ali Mabrouk Juma, a sea cucumber farmer from Pemba, said the forum had sparked the formation of new professional networks and partnerships with other countries.

“We’ve learned how to add value to marine products, access global markets and engage in policymaking,” he said.

Ms Salma Mwishaha Chato, Director of Mikindani Seaweed Company and a partner at Kilimo Trust, said the forum had opened new business opportunities for marine products and expanded market access through international collaboration.

She emphasised the need for greater public awareness on the value of seaweed in Tanzania and urged the government and development partners to continue educating communities on its uses, quality standards and market potential.