TANZANIA is on the brink of a transformative era in ocean governance. With a vast coastline along the Indian Ocean, the country holds immense potential to leverage the blue economy for economic growth, food security, and sustainable livelihoods.
However, marine pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat destruction continue to threaten this precious ecosystem.
In this context, the Tanzanian chapter of the Ocean Governance Forum will take place on February 18-19, 2025, bringing together key stakeholders to chart a sustainable path forward.
This historic forum will catalyze change by providing a dedicated space for political deliberation, multisectoral collaboration, and innovation in sustainable marine management.
Hosted under the guidance of the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), this initiative aligns with Tanzania’s commitments under the Nairobi Convention, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water). Our ocean is a lifeline for millions of Tanzanians.
The forum offers a crucial opportunity to develop a governance framework that not only protects our marine resources but also ensures they contribute to our national development. Sustainable ocean management must be a collective effort, bringing together the government, private sector, academia, and coastal communities.
A Platform for Policy Alignment and Sustainable Growth
The forum will provide a means to align national policies with international commitments, ensuring that Tanzania remains at the forefront of sustainable ocean governance.
By fostering dialogue among key stakeholders, the forum will help bridge the gap between policy and action, facilitating adaptive and inclusive governance systems that can address emerging challenges in marine conservation and economic utilization.
One of the main objectives of the discussions will be to unlock the economic potential of Tanzania’s marine resources while balancing conservation efforts.
Sectors such as fishing, maritime trade, coastal tourism, and renewable energy will be explored, highlighting opportunities for sustainable investment and job creation in coastal communities.
Tanzania’s marine environment faces critical threats such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, pollution, and the adverse effects of climate change.
The forum will not only identify the root causes of these challenges but also present concrete solutions for long-term sustainability. Importantly, the forum will emphasize the role of coastal communities in ocean governance.
Many Tanzanians rely on marine resources for their livelihoods, underscoring the need to ensure local voices are integrated into decision-making processes.
Strengthening community conservation efforts and promoting local stewardship will be central themes of the discussions.
Research, Innovation, and Capacity Building
Science and innovation are essential for effective ocean governance.
The forum will promote research and knowledge-sharing on marine ecosystem management, fishery sustainability, and climate adaptation strategies.
By encouraging technological advancements and capacity-building programs, stakeholders will be equipped with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of ocean governance. Science-based decision-making is crucial for achieving sustainable ocean governance.
By investing in research, capacity building, and innovative technologies, we can ensure that our marine ecosystems continue to thrive while supporting economic development.
The Tanzanian chapter of the Ocean Governance Forum represents an important moment for the country’s marine governance agenda.
By fostering inclusive dialogue, strengthening policy frameworks, and promoting sustainable economic opportunities, this initiative will pave the way for a resilient and prosperous blue economy.
As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable ocean management, Tanzania has the opportunity to lead by example.
This forum is a commitment to ensuring a future where marine resources are protected, communities are empowered, and economic growth is achieved in harmony with nature.
It is time to act, and Tanzania is ready to set sail toward a sustainable ocean future. The author is the Director General of the National Environment Management Council (NEMC).
