The African Union, in recognition of the growing role that the Blue Economy will play in securing successful African economies have launched the 2015-2025 Decade of African Seas and Oceans with 25th July 2015 being celebrated as the very first Africa Day of the Seas and Oceans.

Developed as part of the 2050 Africa Integrated Maritime Strategy the Decade of African Seas and Oceans will engage stakeholders from schools to States. In future years it is hoped that AU Member States will encourage children of all ages to be part of the events, and organize painting and essay writing competitions as well as ocean-related documentaries/movies sessions.

The launch event held at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia brought together various stakeholders including AU Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), Regional Mechanisms, the Private Sector, and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

Her Excellency Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, speaking at the launch commented that ‘the sustainable management of coastal and marine environments and resources is of utmost priority. The promotion of sustainable use of marine and coastal resources in Africa will significantly enhance food security, ensure constant economic growth and improve the quality of lives of the people in the coastal communities.’