AU-IBAR provides support in advancing Liberia’s Blue Economy Vision with National Strategy Consultation

A three-day consultation is being organised by the AU-IBAR to discuss the obstacles in Africa's Blue Economy and how Liberia may overcome them. Insights into sustainable development potential for future growth and assistance in navigating the Blue Economy are the goals of this program that is.

The Liberian government is hosting the consultation in Monrovia from September 24-26, 2024, with the goal of developing a Blue Economy Strategy for the country. Among the primary goals is the establishment of a national development agenda and the specification of priority sectors for the Blue Economy Strategy. These talks are in line with Agenda 2063 of the African Union and the Africa Blue Economy Strategy, both of which stress the need of transforming Africa's economy and society through the responsible use of the continent's water resources.

The importance of a thorough national plan was stressed by John F. Harvey, the Deputy Maritime Commissioner for Vessel Registration. The Atlantic Ocean coastline of Liberia is more than 560 kilometres long, providing ample opportunity for the Blue Economy to propel sustainable development. Harvey drove home the point that we must use these resources with care if we want to keep our oceans habitable for years to come.

"New economic opportunities while promoting sustainable development can be unlocked with a well-crafted Blue Economy strategy," Harvey pointed out. "We must devise a plan that deals with the intricacies of this industry and yet fits in with larger national and continental objectives."

Mr. George MBA Asseko, Head of the Blue Economy Division Directorate of Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy (Darbe) of the African Union Commission, spoke earlier via Zoom and said that the workshop is a major step in determining priorities and determining strategic actions that will lead to the creation of a complete Blue Economy strategy that is suited to Liberia's needs and goals.

The strategy that is being developed by AU-IBAR is going to be comprehensive and strong, but it will also be inclusive and represent the opinions of everyone who has a stake in the future of Liberia's Blue Economy, according to Mr. Asseko. This group includes government officials, private sector leaders, academic experts, and community representatives.
An integral part of Liberia's Blue Economy initiatives is the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA). The National Aquatic and Fisheries Administration (NaFAA) is responsible for environmental and security regulation compliance, sustainable management of natural resources and biodiversity, and the administration of both coastal and inland waters. The head of NaFAA's marine fisheries and environment department, Solomon Daryoue, recently made a plea for more capacity within the agency to oversee and regulate maritime operations, with a focus on partnerships with the Coast Guard and the Liberian Immigration Service.

The National Port Authority, the Liberia Maritime Authority, Conservation International, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Environmental Protection Agency were among the ministries and agencies represented at the consultation. With the help of lively debates, this workshop aims to define the fundamental goals of Liberia's Blue Economy Strategy and lay the groundwork for its full execution.

By focussing on these areas, Liberia intends to make a name for itself in the field of sustainable marine and aquatic resource development, which will boost the country's economy and bring it in line with continental Blue Economy plans.
The workshop's results will have a significant impact on how Liberia approaches the Blue Economy, which can lead to sustained socio-economic transformation in the long run.

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