Grand-Bassam, Côte d’Ivoire — A two-day validation workshop for four thematic reports on the blue economy kicked off today in Grand-Bassam. Organized by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the event aims to align these findings with the country’s sustainable development priorities and uncover partnership opportunities to drive growth in the sector.

Speaking on behalf of the FAO representative in Côte d’Ivoire, Dedi Séraphin, the agency’s program manager emphasized the long-standing partnership between the FAO and the Ivorian government. He highlighted the UN body’s role in shaping policies that enhance food security, promote sustainable natural resource management, and—through a dedicated blue economy project—foster the sustainable development of aquatic, fisheries, and coastal resources.

The thematic reports, Dedi noted, serve as critical decision-making tools. They are designed to guide public policies and investments in the blue economy while reflecting on-the-ground realities and national priorities. During the workshop, participants are encouraged to identify concrete public-private partnership opportunities and critically assess the reports to propose actionable, time-bound recommendations with clear accountability measures.

The FAO’s commitment extends beyond the workshop, as the organization pledged to support Côte d’Ivoire in implementing the recommendations. This support includes leveraging technical expertise and fostering dialogue among public, private, and technical partners to turn these proposals into tangible actions. The ultimate goal is to transform the blue economy into a sustainable driver for food security, job creation, and economic resilience.

Government endorses blue economy priorities with strong backing

Dr. Kaba Ibrahima, technical advisor to the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the workshop’s recommendations. The objective is to advance a sustainable blue economy that bolsters food sovereignty, youth employment, and economic growth.

He expressed deep appreciation for the FAO’s ongoing support in promoting the blue economy, acknowledging the organization’s technical and methodological assistance as well as its dedication to aligning with national development goals. The government views this partnership as pivotal in realizing its economic and social ambitions.

Collaborative effort to shape the future of Côte d’Ivoire’s blue economy

The workshop brings together key players in the blue economy, including experts, researchers, representatives from relevant ministries, private sector actors, technical and financial partners, and civil society organizations. The event concludes tomorrow, marking a significant step toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for Côte d’Ivoire’s coastal and marine sectors.