The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), in partnership with the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), has unveiled a landmark initiative aimed at accelerating coordinated blue economy development across the Horn of Africa.

The Building Blue Economy Resilience and Prosperity in IGAD & the Horn of Africa (BE-Prosper) project was officially launched during a three-day forum held at IGAD headquarters in Djibouti from November 17–19. The event convened senior government officials, regional institutions, development partners, and industry experts to chart the course for sustainable maritime development.

Speaking on behalf of IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, Mohy Tohami, IGAD Director of Economic Cooperation and Regional Integration, highlighted the untapped potential of the region’s aquatic resources.

“The IGAD region has vast blue economy resources that, if harnessed responsibly, can alleviate poverty and enhance food security,” Tohami said. “Sustainable fisheries and resilient coastal economies are key to regional transformation.” He underscored the need for harmonised fish standards, strengthened value chains, and expanded intra-regional fish trade to drive economic integration and community livelihoods.

Representing the AfDB, Ahmed Khan, Chief Fisheries Officer, affirmed the Bank’s commitment to sustainable fisheries management and regional value chain development. “The blue economy represents a strategic driver for economic growth and climate resilience. BE-Prosper will support member states in improving fisheries management, promoting value addition, and enhancing livelihoods for coastal and riparian communities,” he said.

Funded through a $5.2 million grant from the Bank’s Transition Support Facility, BE-Prosper targets Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia, and South Sudan. The project collaborates with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the University of British Columbia (UBC) to implement joint fisheries assessments, vessel monitoring, training, and institutional strengthening. Policy harmonisation and facilitation of intra-regional fish trade are led by UNIDO, while climate resilience tools and insurance mechanisms are provided by the IGAD Climate Prediction & Applications Centre.

Daher Elmi, IGAD Director of Agriculture and Environment, noted that all IGAD Member States now have validated national blue economy strategies. “With BE-Prosper, we are moving from strategy to action. This project will transform regional blue economy visions into real investments and tangible benefits for communities,” he said.

The launch concluded with the establishment of a Project Steering Committee and an agreed implementation roadmap, setting the stage for long-term prosperity and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa.

Key Takeaways:

• BE-Prosper strengthens fisheries governance, value chains, and trade across the IGAD region.

• The project enhances food security and climate resilience for coastal and riparian communities.

• Collaboration with FAO, UNIDO, and UBC ensures technical support, training, and policy alignment.

Source: IGAD & African Development Bank Press Release