November 26-28, 2024 (DJIBOUTI CITY, Djibouti): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) hosted the 2nd Blue Economy Knowledge Share Fair, bringing together policymakers, development partners, private sector leaders, and experts under the theme “Investing in Blue Economy for Regional Integration”. Held at the Ayla Grand Hotel in Djibouti City, this transformative event highlighted the immense potential of the Blue Economy to drive sustainability, regional integration, and socio-economic growth across the Horn of Africa.
The event was officially opened by Djibouti’s Ministers of Environment and Sustainable Development, the Minister for Transport and Equipment, and H.E. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary. Their collective presence underscored the critical importance of regional collaboration in unlocking the potential of Blue Economy resources.
The three-day event built on the success of the inaugural fair in Mombasa in June 2023, which laid the groundwork for regional collaboration in Blue Economy initiatives. The focuses of the 2nd IGAD Knowledge Share Fair were advancing knowledge exchange, fostering innovation, and strengthening partnerships. The programme featured plenary discussions, parallel sessions, and exhibitions, where participants shared insights and explored solutions to key challenges. A field visit to Djibouti’s thriving maritime sector provided attendees with a first-hand perspective on the opportunities of Blue Economy.
H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary, welcomed delegates to the event, underscoring the region’s strategic position along vital water bodies, including the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Nile Basin. He remarked, “The IGAD Blue Economy Strategy is a cornerstone of our mission to unlock the socio-economic potential of our marine and freshwater resources, ensuring inclusivity and environmental sustainability.” Dr. Workneh also acknowledged the invaluable support of partners such as the Government of Sweden, whose contributions through SIDA have been instrumental in driving Blue Economy initiatives in the region.
A key theme of the discussions was the importance of gender equity and empowering coastal communities. The event emphasised the role of women in the Blue Economy sectors, recognising their critical contributions to food security and resource management. Dr. Workneh highlighted the significance of inclusion, stating, “Empowering women is not just a matter of social justice; it is an economic imperative. Women play a pivotal role in resource management and food security”.
The fair also showcased success stories and innovations from the region, including advances in marine biotechnology, renewable energy projects, and sustainable fisheries management. IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to supporting member states by enhancing knowledge management systems to document and disseminate best practices for greater synergy and impact.
The event celebrated partnerships with stakeholders such as the African Union, African Development Bank, UNECA, UNIDO, UNDP, FAO, SADC, COMESA, EAC and others, who provided critical insights into fostering investment and addressing challenges like climate change. The fair also underscored the vital role of private sector engagement in unlocking the full potential of the Blue Economy.
H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu encapsulated the spirit of the event in his remarks, stating, “This fair exemplifies the spirit of regional cooperation and innovation. Together, we can unlock the Blue Economy’s vast potential for sustainable development and achieve the IGAD vision of a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful region”.
As the 2nd Blue Economy Knowledge Share Fair drew to a close, IGAD looked to the future with renewed determination. The outcomes of the event will shape future policies and interventions, ensuring that the Blue Economy becomes a cornerstone of sustainable and inclusive growth for the IGAD region. With the continued support of partners and stakeholders, IGAD is poised to lead the way in harnessing the transformative potential of the Blue Economy.
