Meet the stakeholders of the blue economy in the Indian Ocean
Fishermen, scientists, tourism professionals, and national park managers all have one thing in common: they are involved in what is known as the ‘blue economy’. Who are they and how do they ensure sustainable use of marine resources? A series of videos sheds the light on their challenges.
In 2021-22, France has worked with the region on a project focusing on the blue economy in the Indian Ocean. This includes many local civil society initiatives, research projects about the ocean and blue economy actors, and events for raising awareness about the need for a fair and inclusive blue economy.
Mwanase, Dinis, Adifaon and Viviane agreed to share their experience and daily life focused on protecting the Indian Ocean. They explain what the ‘blue economy’ means for them. Economic activity generated by the Indian Ocean must enable fair and inclusive economic and social development, benefit regional communities, guarantee sustainable resources, and protect marine and coastal environments.
The dilemma lies in finding a balance between economic priorities and environmental conservation. “It’s important to fish with non-destructive techniques to ensure resources are protected for the long term and future generations,” explains Adifaon, a ranger at Mohrli National Park in the Comoro Islands.
The videos present the daily work in the field by Viviane Givene, a seafood collector in Toliara (Madagascar), Mwanase Ahmed, head of a tourism business in Kilifi (Kenya), Dinis Juizo, a hydrologist researcher working on the Incomati Delta (Mozambique), and Adifaon, a ranger at Moheli National Park. This series explains the role played by the Indian Ocean in the lives of coastal populations and the need to protect it.
Watch the video profiles below:
Viviane Givene, seafood collector in Madagascar
Mwanase Ahmed, Ecotourism lodge manager in Kenya
Dinis Juizo, hydrologist
Adifaon, ranger at Moheli National Park
February 2022