On October 15–16, 2025, Lomé hosted the third edition of BlueInvest Africa, a unique business forum dedicated to promoting the blue economy across the continent. Organized by the European Union in cooperation with the Government of the Republic of Togo, the event, held both in-person and online, brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers around a shared ambition: stimulating innovation, sustainability, and partnerships for inclusive blue growth in Africa.
For two days, the 2 Février Hotel in Lomé welcomed entrepreneurs, investors, institutions, and experts with the common goal of promoting innovation and investment in Africa’s blue economy. The term “blue economy” encompasses all economic activities conducted in marine or inland water environments, whether traditional—such as fishing, tourism, and transport—or innovative, including biotechnology, aquaculture, and renewable energy.
« The choice of Togo to host this edition is no coincidence. It reflects recognition of the country’s strategic role in the West African maritime economy, » emphasized Gwilym Jones, European Union Ambassador to Togo.
Among the highlights, 24 project leaders from across Africa presented their initiatives to a panel of experts and funders. « Be confident and bold. Your ideas can transform Africa’s blue economy, » encouraged Stanislas Baba, Secretary-General of the Government of Togo.
Charlina Vitcheva, Director-General of DG MARE at the European Commission, stressed the importance of concrete support: « Innovation in ocean governance and the blue economy requires resources to flourish. » The only Togolese woman selected, Kplolali Ahama, impressed the audience with her aquaponics farm project, a first of its scale in Togo.
The closing press conference, held at the European Union Delegation in Togo on Friday, October 17, 2025, reviewed the forum’s outcomes and highlighted the success of this edition, marked by cooperation and innovation.
« The results of this 3rd edition in Togo are positive. We recorded over 300 participants from 39 countries, including 31 from Africa. We thank the Togolese authorities for their availability and involvement, particularly Stanislas Baba, who adjusted his schedule to attend some project presentations, » said Charlina Vitcheva, Director-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries at the European Commission. « We are pleased with the quality and relevance of the 24 projects presented, especially the Togolese project, which enters the winners’ circle for the first time. I had the chance to visit this aquaponics farm here in Lomé, and I can say it is an innovative and promising project that truly deserves support. »
The next edition of BlueInvest Africa is scheduled to take place in South Africa in 2026.
Source: eeas
