Kisumu is set to host the second Aquatic Resources and Blue Economy Conference (ARBEC II) to take stock of the gains made in unlocking the sector’s potential.
The conference organised by the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) from June 18 to 21, 2024, has attracted leaders, researchers, industry experts, the private sector, and stakeholders in the fields of marine biology, oceanography, environmental science, and the blue economy.
Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary (CS) Salim Mvurya is expected to officially open the conference on Tuesday, whose theme is ‘Science-Driven Stewardship for a Sustainable Blue Economy’.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o and Blue Economy Principal Secretary (PS) Betsy Njagi, among other national and county government officials, are also listed as keynote speakers.
According to a statement from KMFRI, the conference will provide a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and exploration of sustainable practices to advance the blue economy agenda.
The conference will explore cutting-edge interdisciplinary research on marine biology, oceanography, environmental science, and economics with a view to fostering collaboration between scientists, academics, and industry experts to address complex challenges facing aquatic ecosystems and the blue economy.
Delegates will also discuss the impacts of climate change on aquatic ecosystems and the blue economy, examining cross-cutting issues that require integrated solutions, and exploring strategies to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change on marine environments and associated communities.
Other topics include community engagement and inclusivity, technology and innovation, capacity building, policy, and governance.
The delegates will also offer innovative and scientific-driven solutions to the challenges of overfishing, pollution, and habitat degradation.
“ARBEC II, therefore, is not just a conference; it is a collective commitment to address the critical issues affecting our oceans, lakes, and waterways,” reads the statement in part about solutions.
The conference comes at a time when the government is exploring commercialisation of Kenya’s enormous Blue Economy resources for the benefit of Kenyans by creating well-thought-out strategic national systems.
It will also ensure the available resources are sustainably managed to generate investments, create jobs, increase revenues, and sustainably improve local livelihoods.
By Chris Mahandara
