Accra: The second Blue Economy Conference (IBEC-2025) has ended in The Gambia with a call on various stakeholders to embrace effective collaboration to unlock the full potential of the Blue Economy. The Conference organised by the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra in collaboration with the Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI), Tanzania was on the theme: 'Harnessing the Blue Economy: Leveraging for Innovative and Sustainable Development.' The event was under the auspices of The Gambian Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure. The three-day Conference brought together over 200 international stakeholders to share ideas on promoting the blue economy to subsequently lead development across the continent, by tapping into prospects within the maritime industry.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Jethro W. Brooks Jr., the Acting Vice Chancellor of the RMU, called on various stakeholders to foster collaborations within the sub-region to harness the full potential of the blue economy. He emphasised the need for industry players to be innovative and collaborate effectively to tap into the prospects within the ocean. Dr Brooks Jr said the blue economy focuses on leveraging oceanic resources to drive economic development while sustaining the environment.
"Our vision to utilise the resources within the ocean to foster economic development within the sub-region could only be realised through innovation, collaboration and commitment to sustainability," he said. He stressed the importance of ensuring that development does not come at the expense of the environment, advocating for practices that protect water bodies, climate, and the environment for future generations. "A good blue economy must ensure conservation, equity as well as exclusivity. It is important to focus on a long-term approach which would ensure that today's blue economy would build a legacy for tomorrow," he added.
Muhammed B.S Jallow, The Gambian Vice President, reiterated the decisive moment at hand, urging stakeholders to fully leverage the economic potential the marine and blue economy provides. He highlighted the sustainable use of ocean resources to drive economic growth, enhance livelihoods, and create jobs while ensuring the health of marine ecosystems. "We must adopt approaches that harness the ocean's ability to generate prosperity while maintaining the vitality and robustness of our marine environments for generations to come," he said.
Mr Ebrima Sillah, the Gambian Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, emphasized the essential nature of the Blue Economy for both economies and livelihoods, calling on all stakeholders to unite in this crucial effort. He stressed that protecting marine life is a collective responsibility that must be embraced by all.
The conference featured presentations on key topics such as Blue Justice Approach to Blue Economy Policy Development, Digital Transformation of the Blue Economy, and Sustainable Practices for the Future of Seafood. Discussions also covered Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, Marine Safety and Security, and Sustainable Fisheries Management.