A blue economy is being developed that acknowledges the interconnection between healthy economies and healthy marine ecosystems. The government, private sector, and industry collaborate to develop the blue economy to enhance economic resilience and sustainable development.
Somali Blue Economy Center (SOBEC) initiative by SONRREC to develop national guidelines on Marine Spatial Planning and Integrated Coastal Zone Management to assess the status of the Somali Blue Economy Plan for the sustainable development and management of Somalia’s marine and coastal resources. It aims to maximize these resources’ economic, social, and environmental benefits for the benefit of all Somalis. The SOBEC strategy is built on inclusive and participatory development principles and aims to promote the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources while protecting the environment. It is based on a vision of a thriving and sustainable blue economy that contributes to Somalia’s economic growth and social development.
The strategy has a number of key pillars, including:
- Sustainable fisheries: The strategy aims to promote the sustainable management of fishery resources, including through the establishment of marine protected areas and the implementation of responsible fishing practices.
- Marine transport and logistics: The strategy seeks to develop Somalia’s maritime infrastructure, including ports and shipping lanes, to support the movement of goods and people within and through the country.
- Tourism and coastal recreation: The strategy aims to develop the tourism industry in Somalia, including through the promotion of coastal and marine tourism and the development of recreational facilities.
- Blue biotechnology and bioprospecting: The strategy aims to support the development of new technologies and products based on marine and coastal resources, including through the promotion of blue biotechnology and bioprospecting.
- Environmental protection: The strategy includes measures to protect and conserve marine and coastal environments, including through the establishment of marine protected areas and the promotion of environmentally responsible development practices.
SONRREC has been working with clients and partners to foster the principles of a blue economy through ocean and coastal management projects. SONRREC has been involved in various projects related to fisheries, sustainable tourism, ocean renewable energy, marine technology, and protecting and conserving ocean resources and ecosystems. Many of these projects have focused on combining conservation and economic growth, including:
· Marine spatial planning
· Supply and value chain analysis and planning
· Marine plastics mitigation
· Enhancement of coastal livelihoods
· Coastal Zone Management
· Fisheries management plans
· Renewable energy development
· Ecosystem-based management
· Traceability and certification systems
· Sustainable tourism initiatives