Kenya has reaffirmed its leadership in the blue economy space as African and global leaders convened in Mombasa for a high-level forum focused on sustainable ocean governance and “blue foods” integration into national policies.
Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho officially opened the High-Level African Blue Food Leadership Roundtable held at Travellers Beach Hotel, on the sidelines of the 11th Our Ocean Conference.
The meeting brought together ministers, policymakers, and international ocean experts to coordinate commitments aimed at strengthening sustainable marine and aquatic food systems across Africa.
Among those in attendance were Ghana’s Fisheries Minister Emelia Arthur, UN Special Envoy for the Ocean Peter Thomson, Iceland’s ocean representative Jon Jonasson, and AUDA-NEPAD climate advisor Keriako Tobiko.
The discussions centered on integrating blue foods into national development strategies, with a focus on food security, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth.
Kenya, which plays a leading role within the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Blue Economy, reiterated its commitment to championing the African Blue Food Leadership Network.
CS Joho said Kenya is committed to moving blue economy policies beyond discussions into practical implementation that directly benefits coastal communities and strengthens livelihoods.
The Principal Secretary for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Betsy Njagi, accompanied him during the forum.
The event highlighted growing continental momentum toward ocean-based economic transformation, with African states pushing for stronger investment, policy alignment, and innovation in the sector.