By Mwanaharusi Jilo

November 29, 2023 - Mombasa, Mama Ngina Waterfront - Jumuiya ya kaunti za Pwani (JKP) took the spotlight at the JABEIC 2023 event held at the scenic Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa on November 29. The event provided a platform to illuminate critical issues within the blue economy.

In a noteworthy address by Rashid on behalf of Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, the challenges facing the blue economy sector were openly discussed. These challenges included low investment, the impacts of climate change, resource use conflicts, and insufficient support, all contributing to the sector's sluggish growth.

Secretary Mvurya underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in overcoming these challenges, acknowledging support from the European Union, National Government, and County Government. Strengthening partnerships and collaborations emerged as a focal point, alongside the imperative of integrating youth and women into the blue economy. Skills training was emphasized as a catalyst for growth.

A significant announcement highlighted the National Government's ambitious plan to train 1000 fishers annually, with 725 already benefiting from this initiative. The overarching goal is to bolster fish production in aquaculture. Through a collaboration with Spain, new fish laboratories have been established in both Mombasa and Kisumu, marking a progressive step toward sustainable and enhanced fish production.

The JABEIC 2023 event demonstrated a commitment to overcoming challenges in the blue economy, with collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives poised to propel the sector towards sustainable growth and development.

Continuing the impactful narrative of the JABEIC 2023 event at Mama Ngina Waterfront, Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya highlighted the transformative impact of the blue economy on women. Particularly in Kisumu, women have reaped significant benefits, with a substantial sum of 168 million dedicated to supporting their participation in the sector.

The resonating words of Jennifer Liu from the United States echoed through the event, emphasizing the vital connection between identifying problems and finding solutions. Liu remarked, "Unless you identify the problem, you cannot solve it." The event, she noted, plays a crucial role in making the public aware of the issues affecting the blue economy and outlining actionable steps to address them.

Jennifer Liu underscored the importance of events like JABEIC 2023 as platforms for the public and sponsors to not only hear about the challenges but also understand how they can actively contribute to solutions. These gatherings foster a collaborative environment where shared insights and experiences can drive meaningful change.

As the event progresses, it is evident that JABEIC 2023 is not merely a forum for discussion but a catalyst for action. The empowering impact on women and the heightened awareness generated are poised to set the stage for a more sustainable and inclusive future for the blue economy.