Tanzania is set to benefit from various economic opportunities arising from the 12th Meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Nairobi Convention, also known as COP12, which began on October 6, 2026, in Dar es Salaam. The meeting has brought together over 1,460 participants from 10 member countries of the Nairobi Convention. According to Dr. Richard Muyungi, Permanent Secretary in the Vice President's Office, the Western Indian Ocean region has diverse economic resources and activities, including tourism, fishing, transportation, and energy.
The COP12 meeting aims to involve youth in identifying and utilizing ocean-based opportunities, including employment and entrepreneurship. Young people will be provided with skills and techniques to use these opportunities to earn a living and participate fully in blue economy activities, contributing to individual and national development. This initiative is expected to empower the youth to take advantage of the vast potential of the ocean.
The meeting also provides a platform for businesspeople and entrepreneurs to learn about and identify various investment opportunities arising from the blue economy. Dr. Muyungi noted that the ocean has various resources, including fish, which can be harvested for food and business, as well as natural gas. He emphasized that these resources can be harnessed to boost the economy and create jobs.
Women, particularly those from coastal areas of Zanzibar, are expected to benefit from COP12 through the empowerment of their economic activities and expansion of the market for seaweed farming. Seaweed is one of the crops that contribute to increasing the income of citizens and the nation. Women entrepreneurs involved in seaweed farming are expected to receive education and skills to enhance their production and increase productivity.
The participation of youth, women, and businesspeople in blue economy opportunities is crucial in ensuring that ocean resources are used productively and contribute to Tanzania's sustainable development. Dr. Muyungi emphasized that the blue economy has the potential to transform the lives of Tanzanians and contribute to the country's economic growth.
The COP12 meeting is expected to unlock new opportunities for the blue economy, which is critical for Tanzania's economic development. The blue economy encompasses various economic activities, including sustainable fishing, tourism, and renewable energy. By harnessing these opportunities, Tanzania can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.
The meeting will also provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss and address challenges facing the blue economy, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. By addressing these challenges, Tanzania and other member countries can ensure the long-term sustainability of the blue economy and its benefits for future generations.
Key points
- Tanzania expects to benefit from various economic opportunities arising from COP12.
- The meeting aims to involve youth in identifying and utilizing ocean-based opportunities.
- Women are expected to benefit from COP12 through the empowerment of their economic activities.
