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Africa’s vast ocean resources hold remarkable potential for economic growth and climate resilience. However, unlocking these benefits requires stronger governance and smarter sustainable investment. Additionally, regional collaboration across coastal nations remains absolutely critical to progress. These were the core takeaways from a recent webinar on Africa’s ocean economy and sustainability.
The session was hosted by the Sustainability and ESG Africa Conference and Expo. It brought together senior experts to examine how Africa can build an inclusive blue economy. Notably, participants included Immaculée Uwimana, Senior Policy Advisor at the African Union Commission. Odwa Mtati, CEO of the South African International Maritime Institute, also joined the discussion.
Moderator Wendy Poulton opened the session by highlighting Africa’s strategic maritime importance. She noted that over 38 coastal and island states depend heavily on ocean resources. Furthermore, these oceans play a critical role in food security, trade, energy, and livelihoods. Balancing economic growth with ecosystem protection, she stressed, remains the continent’s central challenge.
Tackling Illegal Fishing Across African Waters
One of the most pressing issues discussed was illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. This practice continues to undermine marine sustainability and economic growth across the continent. In fact, Africa loses an estimated $24 billion annually because of illegal fishing activities alone.
Uwimana explained that the African Union actively promotes ecosystem-based management to address this problem. Since fish stocks frequently move across national boundaries, coordinated enforcement becomes essential. Consequently, harmonised legal frameworks among member states are now a top regional priority. Mtati added that satellite monitoring systems and joint maritime patrols will also be vital tools.
Read Also: Ocean Experts Redefine Sustainable Fishing
Clean Energy and the Shipping Transition
Meanwhile, the webinar also explored the growing link between ocean economies and global energy transition. Africa holds strong potential to produce green hydrogen and other renewable maritime fuels. These fuels could support the decarbonisation of global shipping, which contributes around 3% of greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, Africa’s location along global shipping routes positions it as a future green fuel hub.
Nevertheless, Uwimana stressed that new energy industries must be carefully managed. Without proper oversight, environmental damage and community exclusion remain serious risks. Therefore, expansion must prioritise both ecological protection and tangible benefits for local populations.
Nigeria’s Growing Blue Economy Ambitions
For Nigeria specifically, the ocean economy conversation is particularly timely and relevant. In 2023, the federal government established a dedicated Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Subsequently, this opened new pathways in maritime transport, fisheries, coastal tourism, and marine resource development.
Nigeria’s coastline stretches over 850 kilometres along the Gulf of Guinea. Despite this, illegal fishing, marine pollution, and infrastructure gaps continue limiting the sector’s potential. Experts argue that stronger port infrastructure and maritime surveillance could significantly boost coastal livelihoods. Regional cooperation, too, remains an underutilised lever for protecting Nigeria’s marine resources.
Read Also: Ocean Experts Redefine Sustainable Fishing
Building Skills and Infrastructure for the Future
Beyond policy, the panel emphasised urgent investment in modern port infrastructure and workforce development. Mtati noted that maximising existing infrastructure through smart planning is just as important as building new ports. Similarly, updated maritime training programmes are needed to prepare African professionals for emerging sectors. These include renewable marine energy, cybersecurity, and sustainable fisheries management.
Ultimately, experts agree that coordinated policies could transform Africa’s ocean economy into a powerful development engine. With the right investments, the blue economy can deliver economic resilience and environmental protection across the continent.
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