Africa’s blue economy: Unlocking maritime potential through regional cooperation

Saturday 29 November 2025 - 10:22

By: Dakir Madiha

Africa’s blue economy: Unlocking maritime potential through regional cooperation

The MEDays 2025 Summit in Tangier highlighted Africa's vast maritime potential and the pressing need for improved governance, regional collaboration, and technological innovation to harness its blue economy. Held under the theme “From Seas to Sources: Developing Africa’s Blue Economy for a Sustainable Future,” the session brought together former ministers, financial leaders, and industry experts to explore ways to sustainably utilize Africa’s seas and rivers while preserving fragile ecosystems.

Africa’s untapped maritime wealth

Africa boasts over 25,000 kilometers of coastline and maritime zones spanning 13 million square kilometers, supporting around 50 million people. Despite this, the continent struggles with underutilized resources due to weak governance, illegal fishing, and limited institutional capacity. The panelists underscored the urgent need to address these challenges to unlock Africa’s blue economy as a driver of long-term development.

Somalia’s perspective: Balancing resources and security

Former Somali foreign minister Mohamed Abdirizak Mohamud emphasized the disconnect between Africa’s natural wealth and its limited control over resources. He said Africa is rich in resources but poor in management. He highlighted how foreign operators exploit fishing grounds while local communities face poverty and environmental pressure.

He pointed to tensions in the Horn of Africa, where landlocked countries seek maritime access. He urged business agreements instead of political confrontations to protect regional stability.

He praised the medays forum as a platform for meaningful dialogue and noted Morocco's strategic maritime position. He said African maritime security now depends on knowledge, innovation, and technology instead of military force.

Madagascar’s infrastructure challenge

Former Malagasy Foreign Minister Patrick Rajoelina addressed the infrastructure deficits of island nations like Madagascar, which heavily rely on foreign transit ports due to limited domestic capacity. He underscored the importance of modernizing and expanding ports to reduce import costs and support exports such as vanilla and seafood. Rajoelina also advocated for protecting local fishing communities from illegal industrial fleets, urging global fishing powers to adopt more sustainable practices.

Financial and institutional frameworks for growth

The session also examined the financial and institutional requirements for developing a robust blue economy. Mohammed Fikrat, President of the Management Board of Crédit Agricole Morocco, stressed that maritime growth must align with national economic strategies. He highlighted the importance of coordinated investment, capacity building, and human development to ensure sustainable progress in coastal regions.

Drawing from Morocco’s success in agricultural financing, Fikrat illustrated how targeted investments can benefit both local communities and national economies. He pointed to the critical role of training and expertise in creating a thriving maritime sector.

Regional cooperation: A cornerstone for progress

Speakers unanimously called for stronger regional cooperation to unlock Africa’s maritime potential. With 38 coastal nations and 16 landlocked states depending on maritime routes, collaboration is essential for economic integration and access to global markets. Initiatives such as the Atlantic Initiative, launched by His Majesty King Mohammed VI in 2023, and the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) program, supported by the World Bank, were cited as promising steps toward regional coordination.

The panel concluded that Africa’s blue economy holds the key to sustainable growth, provided countries adopt clear policies, invest in scientific research, and improve maritime governance. From transport and ports to food security and renewable energy, the blue economy offers a comprehensive pathway for progress. However, building strong institutions and partnerships will be critical to transforming Africa’s maritime wealth into lasting development for future generations.