Scientific research key to blue economy growth, experts say

Dar es Salaam. Experts have stated that funding scientific research is essential for influencing policy and fostering the expansion of the blue economy.

Speaking during the launch of Sustainable Ocean Week in Dar es Salaam on Monday, deputy minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Mr Alexander Mnyeti, said the integration of researchers, entrepreneurs and policymakers would provide scalable solutions to existing challenges in the sector.

“We must advance marine solutions that protect the environment and empower coastal communities. This is what the governments of Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar are advocating,” said Mr Mnyeti.

He noted that research has been ongoing and assured that the government will continue to invest in studies that support sustainable marine development.

To reinforce this commitment, Mr Mnyeti said the government had introduced the Building Better Tomorrow (BBT) initiative, an eight-year programme (2022–2030) aimed at equipping young people and women with practical training.

As part of the initiative, President Samia Suluhu Hassan is today (Wednesday) expected to hand over 30 fishing boats and 60 canoes in Tanga as part of the second phase of the BBT programme.

“Through this initiative, Tanzania aims to empower young people and women with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to actively participate in building a sustainable blue economy,” he said.

Meanwhile, the resident director of special programmes at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) – East and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO), Mr Elinasi Monga, said stakeholders in the blue economy had been working independently for years, leading to gaps in policy implementation and research adoption.

“Research cannot be conducted in isolation. Policymakers should identify gaps in information so research can address existing challenges,” he said.

Mr Monga pointed out that Tanzania currently cultivates seaweed using seeds from Asia, but climate change and diseases have posed challenges. He said there was a need for research to develop improved indigenous seaweed varieties that are more resilient and productive.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (Tafiri), Dr Ismael Kimirei, said their newly launched Bahari Accelerator aims to facilitate the commercialisation of scientific research findings within the blue economy.

“The accelerator seeks to bridge the gap between research and commercial solutions, supporting employment, economic resilience, and the sustainable development of coastal communities,” he said.

He added that Tafiri would assist innovators in transforming their ideas into viable businesses, ensuring research findings have practical applications.

On the international front, Canada has reaffirmed its support for Tanzania’s blue economy initiatives. The Head of Cooperation at the Canadian High Commission in Tanzania, Ms Carol Mundle, said Canada’s Partnering for Climate programme was funding innovative marine projects, including the ReSea Project, implemented by Mission Inclusion in partnership with IUCN.

“Evidence shows that marine ecosystem restoration techniques provide sustainable opportunities for coastal communities and marine life. By investing in nature-based solutions and empowering community leaders, particularly women and young people, we advance our shared objectives,” Ms Mundle said.

The Sustainable Ocean Week forum is bringing together experts, policymakers, and business leaders to explore ways to accelerate positive environmental, climate, and economic solutions for Africa and beyond.