Abidjan, June 22, 2026 – Côte d’Ivoire is actively enhancing its South-South collaboration within the realm of the blue economy. This strategic move was spearheaded by Sidi Tiémoko Touré, the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources, during a working visit to Mauritius and Seychelles from June 10 to 12, 2026.
This significant diplomatic and economic tour forms a crucial part of Côte d’Ivoire’s national blue economy strategy implementation. The nation views the blue economy as a vital engine for sustainable growth, a powerful creator of employment opportunities, and a key pathway to maximizing the value of its marine and fisheries resources.
During the initial leg of the mission in Mauritius, the Ivorian minister engaged in productive discussions with his counterpart, Arvin Boolell Gosk, who oversees Agro-industry, Food Security, the Blue Economy, and Fisheries. Their exchanges primarily focused on bolstering cooperation across several critical areas, including sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture development, and the responsible management of marine resources.
Mauritian authorities conveyed their readiness to support Côte d’Ivoire in advancing its blue economy initiatives. This commitment includes sharing valuable expertise, facilitating training programs, and exploring joint project ventures. Both nations are now actively working towards finalizing a comprehensive memorandum of understanding, which will serve to formalize and structure their burgeoning partnership.
In Seychelles, the Ivorian delegation further delved into the intricacies of blue economy governance mechanisms. Meetings were held with key local authorities, including Prime Minister Wallace Cosgrow, who also holds the ministerial portfolio for the sector, alongside various technical experts.
The dialogues in Seychelles covered a broad spectrum of topics essential for a thriving blue economy. These included strategies for the sustainable management of marine resources, robust measures to combat illegal fishing activities, the modernization of fisheries sectors, and the development of efficient value chains. The mission also encompassed informative visits to significant port infrastructures in Victoria, Providence, and Cascade, as well as an aquaculture hatchery and the prestigious Blue Economy Research Institute (BERI) at the University of Seychelles.
Following the successful conclusion of this extensive tour, several pivotal areas for future cooperation have been clearly identified. These encompass enhancing blue economy governance, advancing aquaculture techniques, fostering scientific research and innovation, and intensifying efforts to combat illicit fishing. Formal agreements, in the form of memoranda of understanding, are anticipated to be signed in the near future to solidify these promising partnerships.
Through this proactive mission, Côte d’Ivoire unequivocally reaffirms its dedication to drawing inspiration from successful African models. The nation aims to significantly strengthen its national strategy for blue economy development and to champion a robust South-South cooperation framework, founded on the principles of shared expertise and enduring sustainable growth.
