Promoting 100% Transition in Kenya's Blue Economy

Patricia Onyango, Rongo

In Kenya, the blue economy holds immense potential for sustainable and inclusive growth by encompassing innovation, growth, and utilization of oceanic and aquatic spaces. The blue economy is highly beneficial to a country's growth and the improvement of livelihoods for local communities.

To achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and lay the foundation for smart and inclusive development, it is crucial to diversify the blue economy beyond land-based activities and leverage its coastal and maritime sectors.

The absence of comprehensive policies specifically tailored for the blue economy hinders its growth and sustainable management, resulting in the country lagging behind in terms of economic growth.

Furthermore, the lack of investments and infrastructure in shipbuilding often limits the country's ability to explore and exploit marine resources, hindering progress towards development goals. The presence of investors in the country provides opportunities for the rise and development of various economic fields.

Therefore, supporting impactful conferences such as the European Union conference, which is set to kick off on July 3, 2024, is advantageous in bringing about significant achievements in the coastal and maritime sectors.

According to information from the EU Ambassador, Henriette Geiger, the conference will aim to attract investments in the blue sector through extensive collaborations between the European Union and African countries, with the goal of spurring the blue economy.

For example, the conference will help revive the maritime sector which has faced significant challenges. This will be achieved by highlighting sustainable ventures within sectors like fisheries, transportation, tourism, and renewable ocean energy that can drive economic growth while protecting oceans and lakes.

The conference also aims to realize the potential of Kenya's blue economy through deep-sea fishing, which is the backbone of the blue economy and represents massive opportunities. This will be achieved through collaborations with international partners who will provide the necessary reliable technologies and financing to facilitate economic achievements and developments.

In summary, the success of the conference will open doors to unlock Kenya's blue economy potential and improve livelihoods for local communities.