As we gather in the beautiful city of Nice for the Third United Nations Ocean Conference UNOC3 under the vital theme of "Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean," we stand at a pivotal moment for global ocean governance and Africa's blue economy transformation.
Africa's Ocean ImperativeThe numbers tell a compelling story that underscores Africa's fundamental relationship with the ocean. Africa's blue economy, valued at up to 450 billion annually, presents a remarkable opportunity for growth and development. It plays a crucial role in achieving Agenda 2063, specifically Goal Six, which highlights the blue economy as a key driver of accelerated economic growth. This sector is essential to realizing our vision of The Africa We Want .
Our 38 coastal and island states, with their 47,000 kilometers of coastline surrounded by three oceans and seven seas, house 85 commercial ports that serve as gateways to global markets.
But Africa's blue wealth extends far beyond our shores. Our 677 lakes, including some of the world's largest freshwater bodies, and 63 transboundary river basins are the lifeblood of inland communities. More than 38 of our population lives within 100 kilometers of the coast, with these marine and freshwater resources employing nearly 50 million Africans today-with projections to reach 85 million by 2035. Among them are 13.5 million small-scale fishers and aquaculture farmers who form the backbone of our food security, contributing approximately US24 billion to continental GDP.
It is projected that our blue economy could exceed 1.5 trillion annually by 2050. This is not merely economic potential-it is the sustainable future we must build together.