Despite Madagascar’s vast maritime resources, few young people are engaging in fishing and the blue economy. The government is working to raise awareness of the opportunities this sector offers.
Approximately 22 million young people live in Madagascar, yet only a small fraction actively participate in fishing or the blue economy, said Minister of Fisheries and the Blue Economy, Paubert Mahatante Tsimanaoraty, yesterday at his office in Ampandrianomby. According to ministry data, around 150,000 fishers work along Madagascar’s coasts, with the majority being young. However, compared to the country’s 22 million youth, this number appears insignificant.
In Madagascar, a country rich in maritime and coastal resources, the fishing sector serves as a cornerstone of the blue economy. Yet, many young people seem to be turning away from this field. Studies on social and economic dynamics reveal that many youth, in search of new opportunities, prefer to migrate to urban areas in pursuit of jobs—often in sectors far removed from one that could both sustain and enrich them, according to Minister of Youth and Sports, Moustapha Abdoulah Marson. “Young people have abandoned the sea to flock to the capital, where they gather in large numbers. They complain about the lack of jobs despite their diplomas. Yet, as an island nation, Madagascar has a major asset: its coasts are a true wealth. There are opportunities here, but due to a lack of awareness, many remain inactive, even though it is entirely possible to make a living and build a career in the blue economy. Currently, youth participation in this sector is low,” he added.
Opportunities
In this context, the Minister of Fisheries and the Blue Economy emphasized the crucial role of the blue economy in job creation and addressing the aspirations of young people. He stated, “The blue economy is a solution to young people’s employment needs.” Activities such as seafood salting and drying represent significant sources of income that could attract more youth to the sector.
To maximize the impact of these initiatives, a partnership has been established between the Ministry of Fisheries and the Blue Economy, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Pan-African Youth Organization for the Blue Economy (OPJEB). This collaboration will be showcased at the 2nd African Youth Forum on the Blue Economy, scheduled to take place in Toliara in April.
With the expected participation of 500 young leaders from all 54 African countries, this event represents a major opportunity to encourage youth to explore the promising horizons of the blue economy. The forum’s panel discussions, workshops, and exchanges of best practices will be essential in amplifying the voices of young people on national and regional platforms—reviving their hope in a sector that deserves greater recognition.
Source: lexpress
