By Allan Kai

Sote Hub and partners are gearing up to host the third edition of the Blue Economy Innovation and Investment Summit 2024 from October 2nd to 4th.

The event themed "Building an Inclusive Blue Future," will be held at the Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa. It is expected to feature high-ranking guests, including the H.E. Hon. Ali Hassan Joho, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs; H.E. Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, Governor of Mombasa County; and H.E. Henriette Geiger, the European Union Ambassador to Kenya.

Blue Radio will serve as the official media partner for the second time, live-streaming the event and sharing information and communication with the masses.

Following last year's event's success, which focused on technology's role in optimizing marine operations, reducing environmental impacts, and increasing efficiency, this year's summit will focus on blue investment and finance, blue technology and climate change, and ocean resilience.

A beach clean up activity that took place leading up to last year's Blue Economy Innovation and Investment Summit. Photo: Ali Mzee

Panel discussions will be held on sustainable fisheries, destination marketing, climate-driven innovation, and addressing social and economic challenges, among other topics.

Innovative startups will pitch their ideas to potential investors to obtain business funds.

According to the summit's website, some of the critical challenges to be addressed include "enabling blue tech ventures to connect with necessary infrastructure and oceanographic data for development and testing, collaboration and knowledge sharing, and addressing concerns about the potential negative impacts of certain technologies on ocean ecosystems and livelihoods."

During a media Q&A earlier this year, Sote Hub founder and Director David Oginga explained that "the Blue Economy Summit is a platform that will bring all the actors in the (blue economy) sector, whether it's the government, the private sector, the innovators, and the financiers, on a common table to discuss challenges and opportunities in the Blue Economy."

Sote Hub Director, David Oginga speaking to the media during the Media Launch Event earlier this year. Photo: Ali Mzee

“The “Blue Economy” encompasses this potential, promoting the use of ocean resources for economic benefit while preserving their health. However, realizing this potential requires transformative change, especially in empowering women and youth.The Blue Economy Summit brings together diverse stakeholders to address these crucial aspects and accelerate the journey towards a thriving blue future,” highlights a statement from the summit’s website.

Registration for the Blue Economy Summit is currently ongoing, with interested participants encouraged to secure their spots by visiting www.blueeconomysummit.co.ke.

The event has been made possible through the help of sponsors, including SlovakAid, GIZ, UK International Development, the EU, and the Wildlife Conservation Society.