Tanzania fast-tracks efforts to reap the Blue Economy’s fortunes

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has resorted to making the Blue Economy policy pay the nation its desired dividends, the just-ended forum on Blue Economy Policy revealed.

The National Stakeholders’ Conference on the Blue Economy 2025 was a two-day forum that brought together key players from across Tanzania to deliberate on the current state, challenges, and future prospects of our nation’s blue economy.

The two days from September 10–11, 2025,  marked a historic milestone in Tanzania’s national development agenda.

Speaking during the official closing ceremony, Prof. Godwis Kayayara, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, applauded all participants for their commitment and insightful contributions.

He emphasized the critical role that the blue economy plays in national transformation and called upon all stakeholders to actively implement the resolutions agreed upon during the sessions.

Earlier, Prof. Tumaini Gurumo, the Principal of Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI), highlighted that the conference attracted both national stakeholders and development partners dedicated to advancing the blue economy in Tanzania.

According to Prof. Gurumo, “This forum has not only facilitated technical presentations but has also showcased the pressing need for increased public awareness and education on blue economy matters.”

She referred to the conference as the first of its kind, bringing together experts and practitioners who openly shared the challenges they face and proposed practical solutions for strengthening the sector.

“A key resolution adopted during the conference was that every stakeholder must develop an action plan for implementing the Blue Economy Policy within their respective areas.

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 This includes aligning environmental conservation efforts with sustainable development goals

The forum also underscored the need to integrate blue economy education at all levels, starting from early childhood and primary education so that Tanzanian children grow up understanding and valuing marine and aquatic resources,” she said

Furthermore, she narrated that there is a strong call to increase research and innovation in the blue economy sector. Emphasis was placed on ensuring inclusive participation, particularly of youth and women, to guarantee that no one is left behind in this transformation.

The importance of security and protection of marine and aquatic resources was also stressed, with a reminder that it is the responsibility of each citizen to safeguard these valuable resources.

As we close this important chapter, let it be remembered that this was more than just a conference. It was a national commitment to collective visions to unlock the potential of our oceans, lakes, and rivers. Let us all move forward with determination, collaboration, and a shared responsibility to grow our blue economy sustainably, inclusively, and responsibly.