November 17, 2025 (DJIBOUTI CITY, Republic of Djibouti): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), today launched the multinational project “Building Blue Economy Resilience and Prosperity in IGAD & the Horn of Africa (BE-Prosper)” at IGAD Headquarters in Djibouti. The three-day event (17–19 November) brings together senior government officials, development partners, experts, and regional institutions to accelerate coordinated Blue Economy action across the Horn of Africa.
Funded through a UA 4 million grant from AfDB’s Transition Support Facility (TSF) Pillar III, the project supports Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia and South Sudan, in collaboration with FAO, UNIDO and the University of British Columbia (UBC).
Speaking on behalf of H.E. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary, Dr Mohy Tohami, IGAD Director of Economic Cooperation and Regional Integration, reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to unlocking the region’s Blue Economy potential.
“The IGAD region has vast Blue Economy resources that, if properly used, will alleviate poverty and provide food security to our population,” he noted, emphasising that well-governed fisheries and resilient coastal economies are central to regional transformation.
Dr Mohy stressed the importance of harmonised fish standards, strong value chains and expanded intra-regional fish trade as drivers of economic integration and improved community livelihoods.
Mr Daher Elmi, IGAD Director of Agriculture and Environment, highlighted the progress made with all IGAD Member States now having validated national Blue Economy strategies with IGAD’s support.
“With BE-Prosper, we are moving from strategy to implementation. The project will translate our Blue Economy visions into real investments and tangible benefits for communities,” he said.
Representing the African Development Bank, Dr Ahmed S. Khan, Chief Fisheries Officer and Coordinator for Blue Economy and Fisheries, delivered remarks on behalf of Pascal Sanginga, Regional Sector Manager, in the Department of Agriculture and Agro-industry. He underscored AfDB’s strong commitment to strengthening aquatic food systems, sustainable fisheries and regional value chains across Eastern Africa.
“This project marks an important step in building resilient, sustainable and integrated Blue Economy systems across the Horn of Africa,” he said. “BE-Prosper will help Member States improve fisheries management, expand opportunities for value addition, and enhance livelihoods for coastal and riparian communities.”
He further noted that AfDB sees the Blue Economy as a strategic driver of economic transformation, climate resilience and regional integration:
“The African Development Bank is proud to partner with IGAD as it leads a truly multinational initiative where transboundary fisheries, food security, fragility and regional cooperation come together. We stand ready to continue mobilising support to scale up Blue Economy investment across the region.”
The BE-Prosper project includes joint fisheries assessments, vessel monitoring, training and institutional strengthening with FAO and UBC; harmonisation of policies and facilitation of intra-regional fish trade led by UNIDO; climate resilience tools and insurance mechanisms through ICPAC; and a strong project coordination framework to ensure timely implementation.
Throughout the three-day launch, stakeholders will establish the Project Steering Committee, validate the implementation roadmap, and ensure alignment with national priorities and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
BE-Prosper is expected to enhance food security, stimulate local economies, strengthen community resilience, and promote inclusive Blue Economy development across the IGAD region. With stronger governance, deeper collaboration and sustained investment, the initiative is set to deliver long-term prosperity for coastal and inland communities across the Horn of Africa.
