Grand-Bassam hosts pivotal FAO workshop to chart Côte d’Ivoire’s blue economy future
Grand-Bassam, Côte d’Ivoire — A two-day workshop dedicated to validating thematic group reports on Côte d’Ivoire’s blue economy kicked off today at the historic coastal city. Organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the gathering aims to align these reports with the nation’s sustainable development priorities while uncovering partnership opportunities to propel the sector forward.
Addressing participants, Dedi Séraphin, FAO’s Programme Officer in Côte d’Ivoire, emphasised the agency’s long-standing collaboration with the Ivorian government. This partnership focuses on critical areas such as food security, sustainable natural resource management, and — through a dedicated blue economy initiative — the sustainable enhancement of aquatic, fisheries, and coastal resources.
The thematic group reports, Séraphin noted, serve as strategic decision-making tools. They are designed to guide public policies and investments in the blue economy, ensuring they reflect on-ground realities and national priorities.
Key objectives of the workshop
- Identify concrete public-private partnership opportunities to accelerate blue economy growth;
- Critically review reports to develop pragmatic, prioritised recommendations with clearly defined responsibilities;
- Translate recommendations into actionable priorities, complete with realistic timelines and tailored funding mechanisms.
Séraphin reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Côte d’Ivoire in implementing workshop outcomes. This support includes leveraging technical expertise and fostering dialogue among public, private, and technical partners to turn recommendations into tangible progress.
Government reaffirms commitment to sustainable blue economy growth
Dr Kaba Ibrahima, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources, underscored the government’s resolve to implement workshop recommendations. The goal is to foster a sustainable blue economy that bolsters food sovereignty, youth employment, and economic development.
Government officials expressed gratitude to the FAO for its unwavering support in advancing the blue economy agenda. They highlighted the organisation’s technical and methodological assistance, as well as its commitment to sustaining this collaboration in line with national priorities.
Diverse stakeholders converge to shape Côte d’Ivoire’s blue economy future
The workshop brings together a broad spectrum of blue economy stakeholders, including:
- Industry experts and researchers;
- Representatives from relevant ministries;
- Private sector leaders;
- Technical and financial partners;
- Civil society organisations.
The event concludes tomorrow, marking a significant step toward transforming Côte d’Ivoire’s blue economy vision into actionable, sustainable progress.