Tunisia, with its 1,300 kilometers of coastline washed by the Mediterranean, is resolutely looking to the future by embracing the concept of the blue economy. A report entitled “The blue economy in Tunisia, opportunity for integrated and sustainable development of the sea and coastal zones: strategic framing elements”, laid the foundations for an ambitious national strategy in this area.
Supported by the Ministry of the Environment and the General Secretariat for Maritime Affairs, this report is the result of close collaboration with the main players in the sector, whether public, private, academic or from civil society.
Multiple opportunities
The Tunisian coasts are home to more than 7.6 million people, or more than two thirds of the national population. These coastal populations largely depend on marine resources for their livelihood.
The report identifies several key sectors for the sustainable development of the blue economy in Tunisia, including tourism, fishing and aquaculture, maritime transport, marine renewable energies, as well as marine biotechnology.
Strategic targets
Three strategic objectives have been defined as part of this national strategy: promoting economic growth in maritime activities, promoting social inclusion and gender equality, and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources and ecosystem services.
To achieve these objectives, five areas of intervention were proposed, including the establishment of effective institutional governance, the promotion of resources and financing mechanisms, support for job creation and the fight against poverty, strengthening knowledge on marine and coastal capital, as well as adaptation to climate change.
International cooperation
Following the publication of this report, the Tunisian government and the World Bank decided to strengthen their cooperation for the development of the blue economy in Tunisia. The World Bank has mobilized the PROBLUE trust fund to support the second phase of technical assistance, aimed at developing a roadmap for the development of the blue economy. This phase will include analysis and advice on institutional policies, promotion of public and private investment, as well as strategic and operational dialogue with stakeholders.
The blue economy offers Tunisia a unique opportunity to promote integrated and sustainable development of its coastal and marine areas. By adopting a holistic approach and mobilizing national and international resources, Tunisia can transform its challenges into opportunities, and build a prosperous future for future generations.
