Written by: Badr Ahmed

The head of the commission held a meeting African UnionOn Thursday morning, Mahmoud Ali Youssef held a bilateral meeting with the President of the Republic of Mozambique, Daniel Francisco Chapo, ahead of the official opening of the third session of the Blue Growth Conference, which is a regional platform for dialogue on oceans and the blue economy, in the Mozambican capital, Maputo.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission praises Mozambique's role

During the conference, which was officially opened by President Chabo, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission delivered a keynote address entitled “Blue Future: Accelerating Economic Sustainability,” in which he stressed the importance of promoting the sustainable use of marine resources as a key pillar for achieving economic development in the African continent.

Mahmoud Ali Youssef expressed his deep appreciation to President Chabo, the government and people of Mozambique for hosting this important regional event, praising the Mozambican president’s leadership and vision in supporting sustainable ocean governance and promoting the blue economy agenda in Africa.

The Chairperson of the Commission noted that Mozambique, with its extensive coastlines, rich marine ecosystems and exceptional biodiversity, is uniquely positioned to lead African efforts to harness the enormous potential of oceans and water resources for sustainable development.

He highlighted the strategic importance of the blue economy, reviewing the African Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050 and the African Union Blue Economy Strategy as the two main frameworks for enhancing maritime security, protecting the oceans, sustainable management of natural resources, and supporting inclusive economic growth.

He emphasized that the blue economy is a pivotal element in achieving the continent's aspirations in food security, job creation, climate resilience, and driving economic transformation. He also called for increased investment in marine environmental protection and biodiversity conservation, considering the oceans and coastal ecosystems among Africa's most important natural assets.

Youssef explained that Mozambique's strategic location on the Indian Ocean and its extensive coastline position it to be a regional hub for innovation and growth in the blue economy sector. He also welcomed the country's efforts in exploring and developing offshore energy resources, noting their role in enhancing African energy security amidst the uncertainty in global energy markets.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission also commended President Chabo for inaugurating the new headquarters of the Southern African Development Community’s Fisheries Monitoring and Control Coordination Centre, considering this step an important achievement for strengthening regional cooperation and ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks in the region.