Africa’s Blue Economy: Sustainable marine and fresh water exploitation
Africa’s future economic and sustainable development may be fuelled by its blue economy if it is managed in a sustainable manner. According to African Union, marine capture fisheries currently stands at 7 million tons and will only reach 13 million tons by 2030, leaving a supply gap of 6 million tons by 2030. Fresh water fisheries the largest sector of Africa’s blue economy, employs nearly 12 million people. Over 200 million Africans depend on these aquatic resources for food security and the sector generates an estimated value added of more than $24 billion, or 1.26% of the GDP of all African countries. Given the gap in supply of fish and the overall potential of other sectors of the blue economy (currently valued at US$300 billion and, creating 49 million jobs), it is imperative that strategic studies be undertaken to inform policy, investments and sustainable management. Papers to be presented under this thematic area include those on
(a). Aquaculture
(b). Marine resources of food and fibre.
(b). Marine resources of food and fibre.
(c). Conservation of both aquatic and marine biodiversity, and sustainable strategies for ecosystem services.