Grand-Bassam, Côte d’Ivoire — An intensive two-day workshop focused on validating thematic reports for the blue economy kicked off today in Grand-Bassam. Organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the event aims to align these findings with the Côte d’Ivoire’s sustainable development priorities and uncover partnership opportunities to drive growth in the marine and coastal sectors.

During the opening session, Dedi Séraphin, FAO Programme Officer in Côte d’Ivoire, highlighted the United Nations agency’s longstanding collaboration with the Ivorian government. He emphasised how this partnership supports policy development in food security, sustainable resource management, and—through a dedicated blue economy initiative—sustainable use of aquatic, fisheries, and coastal resources.

Séraphin described the thematic group reports as strategic decision-making tools designed to guide public policy and investments in the blue economy. These reports integrate ground-level realities and national priorities, ensuring that proposed measures are both practical and impactful.

He urged participants to use the workshop to identify concrete public-private partnership opportunities and critically assess the reports. The goal is to craft clear, actionable recommendations with defined responsibilities, realistic timelines, and appropriate financing mechanisms. This structured approach aims to position the blue economy as a sustainable driver for food security, job creation, and resilience in Côte d’Ivoire.

Government reaffirms commitment to sustainable blue economy

Addressing the workshop on behalf of Dr Kaba Ibrahima, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources, the government reiterated its dedication to implementing the workshop’s recommendations. The goal is to advance a sustainable blue economy that bolsters food sovereignty, youth employment, and economic development across Côte d’Ivoire.

The government expressed deep appreciation for the FAO’s consistent support in promoting the blue economy. Officials commended the organisation’s technical and methodological expertise, as well as its commitment to sustaining this partnership in alignment with national priorities.

Collaborative platform gathers key stakeholders

The workshop brings together a diverse range of blue economy stakeholders, including experts, researchers, representatives from sectoral ministries, private sector actors, technical and financial partners, and civil society organisations. The intensive discussions will continue through Friday, 31 July 2026, culminating in a roadmap designed to turn strategic insights into tangible actions.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst