Côte d’Ivoire strengthens blue economy ties with mauritius and seychelles

Abidjan, June 22, 2026 – Côte d’Ivoire is actively deepening its South-South cooperation in the realm of the blue economy. This initiative was underscored by a significant working mission undertaken by Sidi Tiémoko Touré, the Minister of Animal and Fisheries Resources, who visited Mauritius and Seychelles from June 10 to 12, 2026.

This strategic tour aligns seamlessly with the implementation of Côte d’Ivoire’s national blue economy strategy. The nation views this sector as a crucial engine for sustainable growth, a powerful creator of employment opportunities, and a vital avenue for enhancing the value of its marine and fisheries resources.

During the initial stop in Mauritius, the Ivorian minister engaged in productive discussions with his counterpart, Arvin Boolell Gosk, who serves as the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries. Their exchanges primarily focused on bolstering bilateral cooperation across key areas such as fishing practices, aquaculture development, and the sustainable management of marine resources.

Mauritian authorities conveyed their strong willingness to support Côte d’Ivoire’s efforts in developing its blue economy. This commitment includes sharing valuable expertise, providing specialized training, and collaborating on joint projects. Both nations are currently in the final stages of drafting a memorandum of understanding, designed to formalize and structure their burgeoning partnership.

In Seychelles, the Ivorian delegation furthered its discussions on intricate blue economy governance mechanisms with local authorities. This included high-level meetings with Prime Minister Wallace Cosgrow, who also oversees the sector, alongside various technical experts and officials.

Key topics of discussion encompassed the sustainable management of fisheries resources, effective strategies for combating illicit fishing activities, modernization of fishing industries, and the comprehensive development of value chains within the sector. The mission also provided an opportunity for significant site visits, including inspections of port infrastructures in Victoria, Providence, and Cascade, as well as a visit to a crucial hatchery and the Blue Economy Research Institute (BERI) at the University of Seychelles.

Following the conclusion of this extensive tour, several critical avenues for cooperation were identified. These include enhanced governance frameworks for the blue economy, advancements in aquaculture, collaborative scientific research, fostering innovation, and strengthening efforts to combat illegal fishing. Formal agreements, in the form of memoranda of understanding, are anticipated to be signed soon to solidify these promising partnerships.

Through this important mission, Côte d’Ivoire emphatically reiterates its commitment to drawing inspiration from successful African models. This approach aims to fortify its national blue economy development strategy and champion South-South cooperation, focusing on the invaluable exchange of expertise and the pursuit of sustainable development across the continent.