UNDP, in partnership with the government of Guinea-Bissau, organized on 29 July 2021 a high-level event on Blue Economy.

The event brought together key actors and stakeholders across government, public institutions, development partners, civil society, academia, and the private sector. Together they discussed and exchanged views on how Guinea-Bissau can collectively embrace and capitalize on its blue economy and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) potentials.

The event was opened by the Vice Prime Minister of Guinea-Bissau, Soares Sambu. Other presenters and panelists included Minister of Environment of Guinea-Bissau, Viriato Soares Cassamá; General Director of Economy at the Ministry of Economy and Planning of Guinea-Bissau, Mussa Sambi; President of Board of Directors of Instituto do Mar in Cabo Verde, Dr. Malik Lopes; UNDP SIDS Blue Economy Specialist, Sofiane Mahjoub; UNESCO-IOC Coordinator in Africa, Mika Odido; and Tiniguena Director Executivo, Dr. Miguel De Barros.

The total number of 100 participants reaffirmed the potential of the blue economy to create jobs, spur economic growth, trade, and tourism towards a more sustainable and resilient future for Guinea-Bissau and its citizens. However, it was stressed that socioeconomic development must be based on ecological principles such as protecting the country’s rich marine and terrestrial biodiversity and ecosystems.

Learn more about how UNDP seeks to support the unlocking of the potential and prospects of the blue economy in Guinea-Bissau here.