AfDB and IGAD Launch Blue Economy Project in Horn of Africa
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development has partnered with the African Development Bank Group to launch a new regional initiative aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the blue economy in the Horn of Africa.
The project, known as Building Blue Economy Resilience and Prosperity in IGAD & the Horn of Africa (BE-Prosper), was officially introduced during a three-day meeting held at the IGAD headquarters in Djibouti from 17 to 19 November. The event brought together senior government officials, development organisations, technical experts and regional institutions.
Speaking on behalf of IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, Mohy Tohami, IGAD Director of Economic Cooperation and Regional Integration, said the region holds vast blue economy resources capable of significantly reducing poverty and improving food security.
He emphasised that sustainable fisheries, harmonised fish standards and stronger value chains are essential for regional integration and improved livelihoods.
Representing the African Development Bank Group, Ahmed Khan, Chief Fisheries Officer and team leader for the project, highlighted the Bank’s commitment to strengthening aquatic food systems and supporting sustainable fisheries across East Africa.
He noted that BE-Prosper will promote cross-border cooperation and foster climate resilience for coastal and inland communities.
The initiative is being financed through a US$5.2 million grant from the Bank’s Transition Support Facility Pillar III. It will support Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia and South Sudan in partnership with FAO, UNIDO and the University of British Columbia.
Key components of the project include joint fisheries assessments, vessel monitoring, training, policy harmonisation, enhanced intra-regional fish trade, and the development of climate resilience tools. The IGAD Climate Prediction & Applications Centre will contribute insurance mechanisms and climate services, while UNIDO will lead work on trade facilitation and regional value chains.
Daher Elmi, IGAD Director of Agriculture and Environment, noted that all IGAD Member States have now developed and validated national blue economy strategies. He said BE-Prosper marks the transition from planning to action, turning regional strategies into practical investments and benefits for communities.
The launch concluded with the formation of a Project Steering Committee and agreement on an implementation roadmap aimed at driving sustainable blue economy development across the Horn of Africa.
