Tanzania has called on regional and international stakeholders to use the ongoing International Blue Economy Stakeholders Forum to chart a clear pathway for positioning the country as Africa’s champion in harnessing marine and aquatic resources.
Speaking at the opening of the two-day forum, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Union) in the Vice President’s Office, Mr. Abdallah Hassan Mitawi, said the meeting should serve as a platform for frank discussions, constructive debate, and actionable recommendations that cut across all sectors of the blue economy.
The forum, which runs from September 10–11 under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Opportunity, Our Responsibility, 2021–2025,” brings together policymakers, financiers, researchers, and development partners to assess achievements made over the past five years and to align future strategies with global priorities.
Mr. Mitawi emphasized that Tanzania has the potential to become the continental hub of the blue economy, noting the country’s vast endowments: 64,200 square kilometers of territorial waters, 29 million hectares of irrigable forests, 87 official ports and more than 80 informal landing sites.
“These resources must be put to effective use in creating jobs, boosting coastal development, enhancing marine conservation, and empowering youth and women to participate meaningfully in the private sector,” he said.
“We must also build stronger regional and international partnerships that can support Tanzania’s ambition of being the leader of Africa’s blue economy.”
He hailed the role of the Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI) in advancing research, education, and policy dialogue on maritime issues, saying the institution has been instrumental in convening both national and international forums.
“In 2024, the government launched the National Blue Economy Policy, which is being coordinated by the Vice President’s Office. Under the National Development Vision 2050, the blue economy is recognized as a strategic pillar to drive inclusive growth through oceans, rivers, lakes, and groundwater resources,” he added.
DMI Rector, Dr. Tumaini Ngulumo, said the institute has been at the forefront of organizing blue economy forums and continues to expand stakeholder engagement each year.
He pointed out that the blue economy touches multiple sectors, including transport, energy, and tourism, making it relevant to every citizen.
“As an academic institution, our mandate is to provide training, research, and expertise in maritime affairs. Between 2021 and 2025, these forums have evaluated achievements, identified challenges, and sought solutions to ensure sustainability of the blue economy in Tanzania and globally,” Dr. Ngulumo said.
He further noted Tanzania’s unique position as the only East African country with a comprehensive maritime transport chain, serving landlocked neighbors such as Malawi, Zambia, and Burundi through its ports.
The 2025 International Blue Economy Stakeholders Forum is expected to close with commitments on cooperation, financing, and marine conservationcementing Tanzania’s aspiration to be at the forefront of Africa’s blue economy growth.