Speaking at the opening of the 3rd High-Level Ministerial Conference on the “Blue Belt Initiative”, Mr. Hilale indicated that optimizing the blue economy will play a central role in achieving the Goals of sustainable development, in particular SDGs 2 (zero hunger) and 14 (sustainable life underwater), and will therefore contribute to food sovereignty in Africa.
“This optimization cannot become a reality without placing it within the framework of regional and sub-regional integration, and endogenous sustainable development, hence the imperative to consolidate a force of collective action, focused on cooperation South-South, which will promote better exploitation of fisheries resources and the development of African potential, and better techniques for exploiting ocean resources,” he said.
In this wake, HM King Mohammed VI has always put South-South cooperation at the heart of his policy of solidarity with the African continent, recalled Mr. Hilale, noting that Morocco, under the leadership and High Directions of HM the Roi, has established strategic partnerships aimed at African food sovereignty, through the sharing of its scientific know-how in sustainable fishing and aquaculture, technical assistance to coastal and island countries, as well as the training of engineers and frames.
This policy of solidarity commitment of the Kingdom was reinforced by the initiative of HM the King, during the First African Action Summit of COP22, noted Mr. Hilale, recalling that it was during this Summit that the Commission Climate of Island States, the Congo Basin Commission and the Sahel region were created.
Furthermore, the ambassador highlighted the studies established by the Economic Commission for Africa, which show that 90% of world exports and imports pass through the oceans and seas bordering Africa, explaining, in this sense , that in a globalized world with a globalized economy, the least developed and landlocked African countries must also be included in the aquatic food security equation.
“It is in this spirit of continental solidarity between coastal countries and landlocked countries that HM King Mohammed VI’s initiative is part of to promote access for Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean,” said Mr. Hilale, noting that this initiative consolidates, once again, the Moroccan model of solidarity and action-oriented South-South cooperation, and also reflects the determination of the Kingdom to realize the Royal Vision around the triptych of peace, security and development for a prosperous, stable and peaceful Africa.
In addition, the ambassador called for moving from the conceptualization of the blue economy to the development of action plans and the implementation of concrete measures responding to the immediate development needs of coastal and other countries, considering that the initiative of the Blue Belt has all the potential to realize this dynamic and proactive approach.
“Eight years after its launch, and thanks to the proactive mobilization of our partners, the Blue Belt Initiative is a diplomatic instrument and a continental convergence space for research, innovation and expertise and development of solidarity and win-win partnerships for the development of the blue economy and the preservation of the ocean ecosystem,” he maintained.
Mr. Hilale also considered that the importance of the blue economy and its now recognized contribution to the global economy call for rethinking and strengthening ocean governance in order to guarantee a fair and equitable distribution of economic benefits in favor of coastal populations.
This Ministerial Conference, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests, in partnership with the World Bank, under the theme “Building a base to stimulate food and jobs in the framework of a blue economy development approach”, is held with the participation of representatives from 32 countries, including 16 delegations led by ministers.
It is part of the African Oceans Week, which takes place from October 7 to 10, and includes a series of meetings and discussions between ministers in charge of fisheries and the blue economy and senior officials. on the issues and challenges of economic growth that the oceans play in the African continent.
What is the “blue economy” and how does it relate to sustainable development goals in Africa?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Amina Bahari, Marine Resource Management Expert
Time.news Editor: Good day, Dr. Bahari, and thank you for joining us. The recent conference on the “Blue Belt Initiative” has highlighted the importance of optimizing the blue economy in achieving sustainable development goals, specifically SDGs 2 and 14. Could you elaborate on what the “blue economy” entails and why it is critical for Africa’s future?
Dr. Amina Bahari: Thank you for having me. The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. For Africa, the blue economy is particularly significant as our continent is surrounded by vast oceans rich in biodiversity and potential resources. Optimizing this sector can boost food security, creating pathways to achieving zero hunger while simultaneously protecting marine life.
Time.news Editor: Mr. Hilale emphasized the need for regional and sub-regional integration to optimize the blue economy. Why do you think this integration is crucial, particularly for African nations?
Dr. Amina Bahari: Integration allows countries to collaborate, share knowledge, and combine efforts to manage fisheries more sustainably. Many African nations share marine resources, so coordinated efforts can help in better regulatory frameworks, resource management, and combating illegal fishing. Additionally, developing collective capacities means that all countries, including landlocked nations, can engage actively in the blue economy.
Time.news Editor: The ambassador mentioned HM King Mohammed VI’s commitment to South-South cooperation. How do these partnerships enhance food sovereignty in Africa?
Dr. Amina Bahari: South-South cooperation is pivotal because it fosters solidarity among African countries. By sharing knowledge, technical assistance, and resources, nations can build their capabilities in sustainable fishing and aquaculture. For instance, Morocco’s initiatives to train engineers and provide technical guidance can help coastal nations manage their fisheries better, thereby enhancing food security across the continent.
Time.news Editor: The article highlights the vital connection between coastal and landlocked countries in terms of aquatic food security. Can you discuss how the blue economy can address these disparities?
Dr. Amina Bahari: Absolutely. Coastal states often have direct access to maritime resources, while landlocked states might rely heavily on imported fish. By fostering cooperation, landlocked countries can gain access to the oceans and benefit from trade agreements that allow them to participate in the blue economy. Developing infrastructure and logistical frameworks can help these nations tap into the aquatic food supply chain more effectively.
Time.news Editor: With the call to move from conceptualization to action plans for the blue economy, what initiatives do you believe should be prioritized to address immediate development needs?
Dr. Amina Bahari: I believe we must prioritize initiatives that focus on sustainable fisheries management, capacity building for communities, and establishing marine protected areas. Training fishermen in sustainable practices, creating awareness about the importance of biodiversity, and ensuring proper enforcement of fishing regulations are also crucial. These steps can create immediate impacts while laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, how can individuals or organizations get involved in supporting the blue economy and fostering sustainability in marine resource management?
Dr. Amina Bahari: Individuals can advocate for sustainable seafood choices and support local fisheries that practise responsible fishing methods. Organizations can focus on education, community engagement, and policy advocacy. Additionally, investment in research and technology that promote sustainable practices can significantly contribute. Collaboration among governments, NGOs, and the private sector will also be key in driving this agenda forward.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Bahari. Your insights into the blue economy and its significance for Africa are incredibly valuable. We hope to see more concrete actions stemming from initiatives like the Blue Belt Initiative in the near future.
Dr. Amina Bahari: Thank you for having me! It’s critical for us to keep the conversation going and to commit to collective action for a sustainable future.