Addis Ababa, July 23, 2024 (FBC) – The African Union Commission (AUC), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and key stakeholders, launched the Africa Blue Economy Week (ABEW-24) and the Commemoration of the Africa Day of Seas and Oceans today in Addis Ababa.
The event is set to boost inclusive and sustainable blue growth across Africa.
Africa’s vast coastline and abundant marine resources offer exceptional opportunities for transformative economic and social development.
However, this potential has been hindered by environmental degradation, overexploitation and infrastructure deficits. The Africa Blue Economy Week and the Commemoration of the Africa Day of Seas and Oceans seeks to tackle these challenges to unlock Africa’s blue potential.
This year’s theme, “Empowering Africa’s Blue Renaissance”, highlights the need for collective effort and innovation to build a dynamic blue sector.
ABEW-24 unites leaders from various sectors to foster dialogue, celebrate achievements and explore the blue economy’s role in advancing development goals such as poverty alleviation and climate resilience.
The African Day of Seas and Oceans, celebrated annually on 25 July, is a feature of ABEW-24, according to UNDP.
This day underscores the tremendous value of Africa’s aquatic resources and the need for sustainable management to support economic growth, food security and environmental health.
The celebration aligns with the Decade of African Seas and Oceans (2015–2025), highlighting efforts to protect and utilize these resources, as per ENA.