The UNEP-Nairobi Convention Secretariat and the University of Nairobi (UoN) have conducted an ‘Assessment of the Contribution of Maritime Sectors to Kenya’s Blue Economy: Values, Potentials and Governance Frameworks’, aiming to contribute to the development of Kenya’s Blue Economy Strategy that aligns with Kenya Vision 2030, National Fisheries and Oceans Policy, and other international commitments such as the SDGs and the AU Agenda 2063.

The Chief guest and Lamu Governor H.E Issa Timamy E.G.H, O.G.W, emphasized that Blue Economy remains to be a significant contributor to coastal urban development and further urged stakeholders to prioritize measures that improve

community capacities and skills to act as agents of their own development.

“Job creation and skilled technical labour in Blue Economy sectors is a pressing need and to achieve this, stakeholders need to address the practical limitations, define stakeholders, and rethink the blue economy approach” stated the Council of Governors Blue Economy Committee Chair.

Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) Director, Prof. James Njiru stressed that job creation in Blue Economy sectors is a pressing need that should be addressed by all players. He further acknowledged the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs for it’s involvement in enhancing Blue economy activities that demonstrates the Country’s zeal to further its Blue Economy.

The key policy considerations from the reports of the workshop presented, include implementing comprehensive ocean governance, using existing research and data, and enhancing market accessibility

The workshop was attended by representatives from the Blue Economy (BE) Sectors, coastal and marine experts, academic institutions, and government representatives with the goal of presenting key findings and recommendations of the assessment to key stakeholders.

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For more information contact:

Lamu County Government Communications Office at communication@lamu.go.ke