By Fatou Bojang
The Gambia formally inaugurated the 4th International Blue Economy Conference on Wednesday. President Adama Barrow highlighted the urgent necessity for sustainable practices and innovative solutions to optimize the potential of ocean resources for economic advancement and environmental conservation.
The conference is dedicated to exploring the sustainable utilization of ocean resources, essential for fostering economic growth and enhancing livelihoods while safeguarding marine ecosystems. It will convene maritime ministers, international organizations, and stakeholders from West and Central Africa to deliberate on the theme “Harnessing the Blue Economy: Leveraging Innovative and Sustainable Development.”
President Barrow emphasized that the Blue Economy generates between $3 and $6 billion annually and plays a crucial role in global employment. He reiterated that sustainable fisheries, eco-tourism, and marine research are vital sectors that could create new opportunities for communities dependent on ocean resources.
The President underscored the urgent need to address the unprecedented challenges facing the world’s water bodies, including pollution and habitat destruction. He called for innovative approaches, research, and cross-border collaboration to ensure sustainable practices within the Blue Economy.
As the conference progressed, participants engaged in discussions aimed at developing actionable strategies to protect and utilize marine resources effectively for the benefit of future generations.
Hon. Ebrima Sillah, Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, underscored the collective obligation to safeguard marine life, urging African nations to unite under the African Blue Economy Alliance to tackle piracy, illegal fishing, and pollution. He highlighted the immense yet underutilized opportunities presented by Africa’s extensive coastlines, which hold the potential for transformative economic benefits.
He also pointed out that establishing a comprehensive National Strategy for the Blue Economy in The Gambia is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability and economic growth.
The upcoming 4th International Blue Economy Conference is poised to produce practical resolutions to enhance cooperation among nations and promote sustainable development, ultimately benefiting humanity and the marine ecosystems that sustain it.
