Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Salim Mvurya, assured international investors of Kenya’s readiness to leverage opportunities in the blue economy sector. Mvurya highlighted Kenya’s implementation of favorable legislation and development of essential infrastructure to facilitate and regulate investments in this sector.
“We have aligned our laws and regulations to create an enabling environment for both local and international investors,” he stated.
Mvurya emphasized Kenya’s collaboration with partners to foster a conducive environment in the Indian Ocean and inland waters, profiling critical investment areas in blue economy and fisheries. He highlighted the role of Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute in providing essential data and technology to advance the blue economy.
Speaking at the launch of the second Blue Invest Africa 2024 Conference at Diani Reef Hotel in Kwale county, Mvurya underscored the conference’s relevance amid Kenya’s commitment to harness numerous opportunities in the blue economy sector.
He noted the conference’s timing alongside preparations to implement the economic partnership agreement with the European Union (EU).
Mvurya acknowledged the EU’s significant partnership, which has enhanced Kenya’s blue economy, attracting investments and fostering growth not only within the country but also across Africa.
“We have walked this journey together because the blue economy is not a new concept but it was not well attended and the partnership with the EU has spiced up our commitment to invest in the sector,” he said.
Mvurya said the partnership will increase capacity building for young women and men so that they have the necessary skills to fully exploit the sector.
“We have identified Bandari Maritime Academy and its associate institutions, the Technical University of Mombasa which is supposed to be initiating courses in Marine to train more experts in the blue economy through EU support,” he said.
The CS announced an agreement with the EU to enhance their partnership in the Marine Spatial Plan of the Indian Ocean and the Lake Region Spatial Plan in Lake Victoria, aimed at promoting sustainable investment in the blue economy.
Mvurya also mentioned plans to shift focus from onshore fishing to mariculture in the Indian Ocean and aquaculture in inland waters, supported by commitments from the EU and other partners.
He highlighted President William Ruto’s advocacy for the blue economy, emphasizing Maritime and Shipping as key priorities for Kenya. EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger noted that the conference provides a platform for stakeholders to explore innovations and technologies in processing marine resources, fostering investment in the blue economy.
Geiger stressed the importance of considering biodiversity loss and climate change in discussions on aquaculture, coastal tourism, fisheries, and plastic management, advocating for sustainable practices. She emphasized the need to conduct business in ways that benefit the environment.
EU Director General Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Charlina Vitcheva highlighted the significant growth potential and socioeconomic benefits of the blue economy, describing the ocean as a source of diverse job opportunities, including cruise tourism, fishing, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals.
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani highlighted the numerous opportunities within the blue economy in her county, citing its strategic location near the Indian Ocean and abundant marine resources.
She said some of the potential opportunities include; marine fisheries, aquaculture, coastal tourism, marine renewable energy, marine biotechnology and waste management.
Achani said the Shimoni Port stands ready to benefit immensely from a public-private partnership, driving growth in the blue economy through sustainable marine resource management.
She said the county is actively seeking investment to add value to seaweed farming, a promising sector ripe for innovation and expansion.
Achani said efforts to initiate direct flights from Nairobi to Diani are set to boost tourism, showcasing the stunning coastal beaches, vibrant hospitality sector and rich wildlife reserve.
She said the completion of the Dongo Kundu Bypass enhances access to Kwale county, creating new business opportunities and fostering economic growth.
Achani urged the investors and entrepreneurs to take advantage of the conference to forge partnerships, invest in innovation, and pave the way for a prosperous and sustainable future.
