In a move to invigorate the fisheries and blue economy sector in the Horn of Africa, USAID-ERRA convened a Collaboration, Learning, and Adaptation (CLA) event from October 11 to 13, 2023, in Addis Ababa aimed at discussing opportunities and challenges in the Fisheries and Blue Economy Sector. The event brought together over 120 delegates from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia (including Somaliland and Puntland) and included i) policymakers from the International Government Authority on Development (IGAD), ii) Ministries of Agriculture, Fisheries, Trade and Environment, iii) businesses from aquaculture and fisheries, iv) importers, and v) development partners.

Conference discussions revealed the immense potential of the region’s blue economy sector to drive job creation, exports, and value addition, particularly in the fisheries sector, and contribute to the inclusivity of women and youth and food security.  Untapped market opportunities extend not only to neighbouring Ethiopia but also to other markets in Africa, the Middle East, the EU, and the USA. Beyond fisheries, the blue economy opens doors to other socio-economic prospects, such as input suppliers, cold logistics, seaweed harvesting, renewable energy, and cosmetics. Some key constraints to realizing this potential were discussed, including ways to boost productivity, post-harvest issues of cold chain logistics and compliance with food safety standards to enhance market access, improving access to finance, lack of awareness of other blue economy opportunities, and prioritizing environmental sustainability.

The event provided a bustling business-to-business (B2B) platform where approximately US$500,000 worth of trade deals and partnerships were signed. For instance, SomTuna, a Tuna Processing Plant in Berbera, expanded its supplier base by partnering with Djibouti fishermen. Women-owned and -led boat-builders met with prospective buyers along the coast, as coastal fishing businesses connected with potential buyers, such as Ethiopian Airlines and hotels in Addis Ababa.

USAID-ERRA will build on these partnerships to unlock the full potential of this sector. We will resolve logistical challenges, streamline customs, empower authorities, arm small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with tools to meet rigorous food safety standards, and facilitate financial access, amongst others. Initial efforts will focus on Djibouti and Somaliland, with the possibility of expanding to other countries.