ECOWAS Resumes Push To Finalise Long-Delayed Blue Economy Strategy

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has revived efforts to complete its long-stalled Regional Blue Economy Strategy, beginning with a high-level consultative workshop on Monday in Abuja.

The meeting brought together officials from ECOWAS member states, continental institutions, and regional economic bodies to review and validate the draft framework, first developed in 2022 under the Programme for Improved Regional Fisheries Governance in Western Africa. Progress had stalled following administrative delays.

The blue economy spanning fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, ocean conservation, and climate adaptation is increasingly viewed as central to West Africa’s sustainable growth and regional integration.

Speaking on behalf of outgoing Director of Agriculture and Rural Development Alain Traoré, ECOWAS fisheries officer Djiga Thiao stressed the need for harmonised policies across the region.

“Marine and water resources are at the crossroads of many sectors—fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, and climate resilience. We need guiding policies to ensure the best use of these resources,” he said.

Thiao acknowledged the strategy’s two-year dormancy but reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment. “This blue economy strategy remains a big priority for the Commission. People may come and go, but institutions remain,” he added.

The African Union also pledged support. Speaking virtually, AU Blue Economy Advisor Linda Etta said the strategy was critical for aligning policies, mobilising investment, and sharing best practices.

Dr Mohammed Seisay of AU-IBAR noted that several African countries had already received technical assistance in crafting national blue economy frameworks, including Burkina Faso. “This support is timely for the ECOWAS region,” he said.

Delegates at the Abuja workshop included national representatives, AU-IBAR, the AUC, and the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea. Their inputs are expected to move the draft closer to adoption.