Tanzania Chapter Ocean Governance Forum, promise of the blue economy

TANZANIA is at the cusp of a transformative era in ocean governance. With an expansive coastline along the Indian Ocean, the country holds immense potential to harness the blue economy for economic growth, food security and sustainable livelihoods.

However, marine pollution, illegal and overfishing, climate change and habitat destruction continue to threaten this valuable ecosystem.

Against this backdrop, the Tanzania Chapter Ocean Governance Forum will be hosted from 18th to 19th February 2025, bringing together key stakeholders to chart a sustainable path forward.

This landmark forum will catalyse change, providing a dedicated space for policy deliberation, multi-sector collaboration and innovation in sustainable marine management.

Hosted under the leadership of the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), this initiative aligns with Tanzania’s commitments under the Nairobi Convention, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water). Our ocean is a lifeline for millions of Tanzanians.

This forum presents a crucial opportunity to build a governance framework that not only safeguards our marine resources but also ensures that they contribute to our national development. Sustainable ocean management must be a collective effort, bringing together government, private sector, academia and coastal communities.

A platform for policy alignment, sustainable growth The forum will provide an avenue to align national policies with international commitments, ensuring Tanzania remains at the forefront of sustainable ocean governance.

By fostering dialogue among key stakeholders, the forum will help bridge the gap between policy and action, facilitating adaptive and inclusive governance systems that can respond to emerging challenges in marine conservation and economic utilisation.

A key focus of the discussions will be unlocking the economic potential of Tanzania’s marine resources while balancing conservation efforts.

Sectors such as fisheries, maritime trade, coastal tourism and renewable energy will be explored, highlighting opportunities for sustainable investment and job creation in coastal communities.

Addressing Marine Threats and Strengthening Community Engagement Tanzania’s marine environment faces critical threats such as illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, pollution and the adverse effects of climate change.

The forum will not only identify the root causes of these challenges but also present actionable solutions for longterm sustainability. Importantly, the forum will emphasise the role of coastal communities in ocean governance.

Many Tanzanians rely on marine resources for their livelihoods, making it imperative to ensure that local voices are integrated into decision-making processes.

Strengthening community-based conservation efforts and promoting local stewardship will be central themes in the discussions.

Research, Innovation and Capacity Building Science and innovation are fundamental to effective ocean governance.

The forum will promote research and knowledge-sharing on marine ecosystem management, fisheries sustainability and climate adaptation strategies.

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Encouraging technological advancements and capacity-building programmes will equip stakeholders with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of ocean governance. Science-driven decisionmaking is crucial in achieving sustainable ocean governance.

By investing in research, capacity building and innovative technologies, we can ensure that our marine ecosystems continue to thrive while supporting economic development.

The road ahead The Tanzania Chapter Ocean Governance Forum represents an important moment for the country’s marine governance agenda.

By fostering inclusive dialogue, strengthening policy frameworks and promoting sustainable economic opportunities, this initiative will pave the way for a resilient and prosperous blue economy.

As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable ocean management, Tanzania has the chance to lead by example.

This forum is a commitment to securing a future where marine resources are protected, communities are empowered and economic growth is achieved in harmony with nature.

The time for action is now and Tanzania is ready to set sail towards a sustainable ocean future. The writer is the Director General at the National Environment Management Council (NEMC).