At a recent symposium and workshop organized by the Africa Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI), Captain Sunday Umoren, Secretary General of the Abuja MOU, emphasized the crucial role of partnerships and enforcement in achieving a sustainable Blue Economy in Africa.
“Partnerships and collaboration are essential for Africa’s marine and Blue Economy to thrive,” Capt. Umoren stressed. “They provide advisory services, economic development, research, informed policy regulation, and sustainable management, ensuring rapid growth of Africa’s marine resources.” ¹
He highlighted that successful partnerships should be mutually beneficial, with each stakeholder contributing to the country’s GDP without pitfalls.
Capt. Umoren also noted that Africa has the potential to transform its challenges into employment opportunities and contribute to national GDP through a proper regulatory framework and enforcement.
“The Blue Economy encompasses activities related to fisheries, shipping, ports, and marine economy, creating jobs worldwide,” he explained. “The further a country moves from its coastline, the higher the capital required for ocean exploitation.”
During the symposium, Capt. Umoren shed light on the Abuja MOU, describing it as a regional organization that promotes port state control in West and Central Africa. He praised Nigeria’s support for the Abuja MOU and its training programs for port authorities.
Key Takeaways:
Partnerships and Collaboration: Essential for Africa’s Blue Economy growth
Enforcement and Regulation: Crucial for sustainable management of marine resources
Blue Economy Potential: Can transform challenges into employment opportunities and contribute to national GDP
Abuja MOU: Regional organization promoting port state control in West and Central Africa
By fostering partnerships and enforcing regulations, Africa can unlock its Blue Economy potential and ensure a sustainable future for its marine resources.
