From Policy to Practice: Strengthening Africa’s Blue Bioeconomy

Africa’s extensive coastlines, rivers and freshwater lakes provide a strong foundation for the blue bioeconomy. Capture fisheries and aquaculture have expanded, with Africa now leading global aquaculture growth. The sector supplies 18% of Africa’s animal protein, employs over 6 million people, and generated 8.5 billion USD in exports in 2022. Growing populations, rising urbanisation and higher incomes are all driving increased fish demand, presenting opportunities for sustainable growth.

However, challenges such as overfishing, limited infrastructure, pollution, climate change, and resource depletion hamper such development. The Malabo Montpellier Panel’s “Fish-Friendly” report shows how African governments are implementing policies and reforms to tackle these challenges and promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Evidence-based interventions detailed in the report show how integrated governance, investment, and innovation can drive inclusive growth, strengthen resilience, and deliver environmental benefits. This aligns with regional frameworks like the African Union’s ten-year CAADP strategy, as well as global commitments like the SDGs and Paris Agreement, and provides valuable lessons for sustainable aquatic resource management.

The Expert Panel at GFFA 2026 seeks to build on these insights, providing a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge, highlight policy innovations, and explore how strengthening the blue bioeconomy can sustainably support food security, livelihoods, and aquatic ecosystems.