Côte d’Ivoire strengthens blue economy partnerships with mauritius and seychelles

Abidjan, June 22, 2026 – Côte d’Ivoire is significantly advancing its South-South cooperation within the vital blue economy sector. This initiative was underscored by a pivotal working mission undertaken by Sidi Tiémoko Touré, the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources, to Mauritius and Seychelles from June 10 to 12, 2026.

This strategic tour forms an integral part of Côte d’Ivoire’s national blue economy strategy implementation. The nation views this sector as a powerful catalyst for sustainable economic growth, a robust generator of employment opportunities, and a crucial pathway to enhancing the value of its rich marine and fisheries resources.

During the initial leg of the mission in Mauritius, the Ivorian minister engaged in productive discussions with his counterpart, Arvin Boolell Gosk, who oversees Agro-industry, Food Security, the Blue Economy, and Fisheries. Our conversations centered on solidifying collaborative efforts in key areas, including sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture development, and the responsible management of marine resources.

Mauritian authorities conveyed their strong willingness to support Côte d’Ivoire in fostering its blue economy. This commitment includes sharing invaluable expertise, facilitating training programs, and embarking on joint projects. Both nations are currently working towards finalizing a comprehensive memorandum of understanding, designed to formalize and structure their burgeoning partnership.

Moving on to Seychelles, the Ivorian delegation engaged in in-depth discussions regarding blue economy governance frameworks with local authorities. This included significant meetings with Prime Minister Wallace Cosgrow, who also holds the ministerial portfolio for the sector, alongside various technical experts.

The dialogues in Seychelles focused intently on critical issues such as the sustainable management of fisheries resources, effective strategies to combat illegal fishing activities, the modernization of industry value chains, and the broader development of the sector. The mission also provided invaluable opportunities to visit key port infrastructures in Victoria, Providence, and Cascade, as well as an aquaculture hatchery and the esteemed Blue Economy Research Institute (BERI) at the University of Seychelles.

Upon the conclusion of this insightful tour, several crucial areas for future cooperation were clearly identified. These encompass enhancing blue economy governance, advancing aquaculture initiatives, fostering scientific research and innovation, and intensifying the fight against illegal fishing. We anticipate the imminent signing of formal memorandums of understanding to cement these promising partnerships.

Through this comprehensive mission, Côte d’Ivoire unequivocally reaffirms its dedication to drawing inspiration from successful African models. The nation aims to robustly strengthen its national strategy for blue economy development and actively promote South-South cooperation, fundamentally built on the principles of shared expertise and sustainable progress.