By Jerry Namaka
The second day of the Vijana na Blue Economy Forum at the Technical University of Mombasa spotlighted strategies for engaging young people in the blue economy.
Held under the theme: Unlocking Blue Economy Opportunities, the forum brought together leaders, entrepreneurs, and youth to discuss innovative ways to harness ocean resources for economic growth.
A panel discussion titled “Promoting Entrepreneurship in the Blue Economy Amongst the Youth” was a key highlight, emphasizing the sector’s potential to create jobs and drive innovation.
Exploring Untapped Opportunities
Zulekha Abdallah, a representative of the Youth Fund, identified the cruise ship and hospitality industries as promising yet underutilized sectors for Kenyan youth.
“Many young people should get into cruise ship jobs and the hospitality industry because that is where the money is,” she said, stressing the importance of acquiring technical skills before venturing into these fields.
The cruise industry, she noted, offers vast opportunities for young people who are willing to explore global markets.
Sote Hub Co-founder David Ogiga urged entrepreneurs to focus on solving real-world challenges. “As long as you’re solving a problem, someone will always pay you,” he said.
Ogiga suggested leveraging ocean-based resources, such as producing value-added seaweed products or recycling beach plastic waste into marketable items.
Financial Discipline and Sustainability
Nancy Kariuki, Regional Sales Manager at ABSA Bank, underscored financial discipline as essential for entrepreneurial success.
“The only businesses we support are those with a clear plan to thrive,” she explained, advising young entrepreneurs to separate personal and business finances, maintain transparent transaction records, and open formal bank accounts.
Panelists also highlighted the importance of sustainability in ensuring the long-term success Nadhifa Juma from Somo Africa emphasized balancing economic ventures with environmental conservation.
“It’s essential to consider sustainability when venturing into entrepreneurship,” she noted.
Building Skills and Digital Presence
Technical expertise was another focus, with Yashpal of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Mombasa emphasizing skill-building as the foundation for entrepreneurial ventures.
“The foundation of any business starts with technical skills,” he said, encouraging youth to invest in developing their skills.
Panelists also highlighted the role of social media in modern entrepreneurship, urging participants to use digital platforms to build brands and reach wider audiences.
A Brighter Future
The forum inspired participants to explore ventures within the blue economy, a sector seen as vital for addressing unemployment and fostering economic stability in coastal regions.
By equipping young people with skills, knowledge, and access to resources, forums like these aim to empower the next generation to drive sustainable growth in ocean-based industries.
