Côte d’Ivoire strengthens blue economy with FAO-backed roadmap

Grand-Bassam, Côte d’Ivoire — A pivotal workshop to validate reports from four thematic groups on the blue economy kicked off today in Grand-Bassam. Organized by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the event aims to align these findings with national sustainable development priorities and uncover partnership opportunities to propel the sector forward.

Addressing participants on behalf of the FAO representative in Côte d’Ivoire, Dedi Séraphin, the agency’s program manager highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the FAO and the Ivorian government. This partnership focuses on enhancing food security, sustainable natural resource management, and—through a dedicated blue economy project—the sustainable development of aquatic, fisheries, and coastal resources.

Dedi emphasized that the reports produced by the thematic groups serve as strategic decision-making tools. These documents are designed to guide public policies and investments in the blue economy while reflecting on-the-ground realities and national priorities.

He urged attendees to leverage the two-day workshop to identify tangible public-private partnership opportunities and critically review the reports. The goal is to craft pragmatic, actionable recommendations with clear responsibilities and timelines.

The FAO remains committed to supporting Côte d’Ivoire in implementing the workshop’s outcomes. This includes mobilizing technical expertise and fostering dialogue among public, private, and technical partners to turn recommendations into prioritized actions with realistic deadlines and suitable financing mechanisms.

The ultimate aim is to transform the blue economy into a sustainable driver for food security, job creation, and resilience in the country.

Dr Kaba Ibrahima, technical advisor representing the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the workshop’s recommendations. The goal is to promote a sustainable blue economy that bolsters food sovereignty, youth employment, and economic growth.

He also expressed the government’s gratitude to the FAO for its unwavering support in advancing the blue economy. This includes technical and methodological assistance, as well as a shared commitment to continue this collaboration in line with national priorities.

The workshop, which brings together key stakeholders in the blue economy—including experts, researchers, sectoral ministry representatives, private sector actors, technical and financial partners, and civil society—concludes tomorrow.