🇲🇺MauritiusEast Africa
Mauritius launches Ocean Week to accelerate sustainable blue economy transition
via Le Mauricien4 min read
Mauritius has launched Ocean Week, marking a pivotal moment for the nation to advance its sustainable and resilient blue economy. The Minister of Agro-Industry highlighted Mauritius's extensive Exclusive Economic Zone, the 20th largest globally, and emphasized the country's obligation as a large oceanic and small island developing state to adopt sustainable ocean plans. The conference features high-level roundtables on blue finance, marine renewable energy, and the blue economy. The Minister stated that the ocean, currently contributing about 10% to the GDP, is targeted to double its contribution within ten years. He cautioned that this expansion must not compromise biodiversity, noting that a well-protected ocean offers opportunities for increased sustainable economic activity. Promising sectors include offshore wind, tidal energy, aquaculture, and maritime trade. Lessons from coastal erosion in Tamarin and the Wakashio Oil Spill underscore the importance of protecting and restoring marine ecosystems, with the Minister mentioning that Mauritius's case regarding the Wakashio incident will be heard before an international court. Coral reefs and mangroves are recognized as natural fortresses for coastal protection and carbon capture. The fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which causes an estimated $10-11 billion in annual losses in the SADC region, is also a priority. Strategically, four action areas have been defined: human capital, policy, finance, an
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Mauricien.
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