Côte d’ivoire deepens blue economy ties with mauritius and seychelles

Abidjan has seen Côte d’Ivoire significantly advance its South-South cooperation in the realm of the blue economy. This strategic push was marked by a recent working mission to Mauritius and Seychelles, undertaken from June 10 to 12, 2026, by Sidi Tiémoko Touré, the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources.

This critical diplomatic tour forms an integral part of implementing Côte d’Ivoire’s national blue economy strategy. This initiative is recognized as a vital catalyst for sustainable economic growth, generating employment opportunities, and enhancing the value of the nation’s abundant marine and fisheries resources.

During the initial leg of the mission in Mauritius, the Ivorian minister engaged in productive discussions with his Mauritian counterpart, Arvin Boolell Gosk, who oversees Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries. Their deliberations centered on fostering stronger collaboration in key areas such as sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture development, and the responsible management of marine ecosystems.

Mauritian officials conveyed their readiness to support Côte d’Ivoire’s blue economy aspirations. This commitment includes sharing valuable expertise, providing specialized training, and embarking on joint projects. Both nations are actively working towards finalizing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to formally structure and solidify their burgeoning partnership.

In Seychelles, the Ivorian delegation delved deeper into the governance mechanisms of the blue economy with local authorities. This included discussions with Prime Minister Wallace Cosgrow, who also holds the blue economy portfolio, alongside various technical experts.

These crucial discussions addressed sustainable management of fisheries resources, effective strategies to combat illegal fishing, modernization of industry sectors, and the robust development of value chains. The mission also facilitated insightful visits to key port infrastructures in Victoria, Providence, and Cascade, as well as an aquaculture hatchery and the Blue Economy Research Institute (BERI) at the University of Seychelles.

Upon the conclusion of this impactful tour, several promising avenues for cooperation were clearly identified. These encompass critical areas such as blue economy governance, aquaculture innovation, scientific research, technological advancements, and intensified efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Formal protocols of agreement are expected to be signed soon to solidify these partnerships.

Through this significant mission, Côte d’Ivoire unequivocally reaffirms its commitment to drawing inspiration from successful African models. The nation seeks to bolster its national blue economy development strategy and champion South-South cooperation, focusing on mutual expertise exchange and fostering sustainable growth across society Africa.