The Government of Tanzania, ReSea Project- Mission inclusion and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) with the support of Global Affairs Canada – and partners today opened the inaugural Regenerative Ocean Week (ROW) — a collaborative summit aimed at accelerating and scaling up nature, climate and people positive ocean solutions across Africa and beyond.
Under the theme “Science-to-Solution”, ROW aims to transform scientific research into practical solutions for business, technology and policy. It will highlight the African shift to a regenerative blue economy, showcasing why a ‘business as usual’ approach must evolve into a holistic, nature-positive strategy that regenerates marine ecosystems and provides equitable benefits to coastal communities while supporting transformation across the board.
A key driver of this transformation is Science-to-Business (S2B) collaboration. By bridging the gap between researchers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, a S2B collaboration will enable scalable solutions for pressing challenges like coastal erosion, plastic pollution, ocean acidification, and declining marine populations. New industries—such as marine biotechnology, seaweed aquaculture, coastal ecotourism, and offshore renewable energy—are emerging as engines for sustainable growth, resilient livelihoods, and climate adaptation.
‘The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania recognizes the urgency of tackling the blue economy challenges through collaboration, innovation, and investment in science and technology. Our commitment is clear: we must develop ocean-based solutions that protect nature and empower local communities. This is what both Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, and His Excellency Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, the President of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, are advocating for. To demonstrate this commitment, the Government has established the Building Better Tomorrow (BBT) initiative, an eight-year (2022-2030) program that trains and mentors youth and women through hands-on learning. This week, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan will hand over 30 boats and 60 fishing rafts in Tanga, marking the second phase of the BBT program. Through this initiative, Tanzania aims to equip youths and women with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to actively participate in building a Regenerative Blue Economy,’ said Hon. Abdallah Ulega, Minister for Livestock and Fisheries of the United Republic of Tanzania.
‘During the summit, the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI), in partnership with Twiga Connect, will launch The BAHARI Accelerator – an innovative initiative designed to unleash the commercial potential of scientific research within the Blue Economy. The BAHARI Accelerator aims to bridge the gap between research and market-driven solutions, fostering job creation, economic resilience, and sustainable development in coastal communities. Through the Bahari Accelerator, TAFIRI intends to affirm our commitment to enabling science-based solutions to the challenges facing the Blue Economy,’ said Dr Ismael Kimirei, Director General, TAFIRI.
The Regenerative Seascapes for People, Climate, and Nature (ReSea) Project, supported by Global Affairs Canada, aims to enhance the resilience of coastal communities in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region by addressing the physical, socio-economic, and environmental challenges posed by climate change. The program seeks to strengthen the effectiveness, equity, and gender responsiveness of marine and coastal governance while fostering sustainable Nature-based Solutions for adaptation.
Anchored on the WIO-led, Africa-driven Great Blue Wall initiative, ReSea aims at becoming a driving force for designing, developing and implementing at scale Nature-based Solutions (NbS) within targeted seascapes in the WIO region, a participatory process with local partners and local communities and using the 8 criteria of IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions.
The Regenerative Ocean Week is a pivotal moment for ReSea as it will address current silos which limit the scale up of NbS. By spearheading multi-stakeholder discussion on NbS at national and regional levels, ReSea will catalyze the development of new partnerships with a focus on ensuring that solutions are available for partners working at the local level.
‘Through Canada’s Partnering for Climate initiative, we are proud to support transformative ocean solutions like the ReSea Project, spearheaded by Mission inclusion and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The evidence is clear – regenerative approaches to marine ecosystems create sustainable opportunities that benefit coastal communities and marine life. When we invest in Nature-based Solutions and empower local leadership, particularly women and youth, we advance our shared goal of a climate-resilient future for all,’ said Carol Mundle, Head of Cooperation at the High Commission of Canada in Tanzania.
Across the African continent, the ocean and coastal ecosystems have long supported livelihoods, culture, and economic development primarily through traditional sectors such as fisheries and maritime transport. However, the rapidly evolving blue economy calls for a broader, nature-positive, and regenerative approach—one that not only safeguards marine biodiversity but also creates new avenues for economic value and local empowerment.
‘IUCN is proud to be part of the Regenerative Ocean Week – a vital platform that unites science, innovation, and community to drive sustainable solutions for the future of our ocean ecosystems and the blue economy. Together, we are addressing critical challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and supporting coastal communities, ensuring a resilient and thriving future for both people and nature,’ said Luther Anukur Bois, International Union for Conservation of Nature Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office (IUCN ESARO) Regional Director.
The summit will also champion gender-responsive approaches, ensuring that women and youth have a central role in shaping the future of ocean stewardship and economic opportunities within the blue economy. Women are particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change and building their capacity to successfully engage in value chains that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable represents an opportunity for these women to earn an income for themselves and their families and is a key pathway to building the resilience of communities and changing gender power dynamics.
‘The health of our oceans depends on inclusive, community-driven solutions. Through the ReSea project, Mission Inclusion with the support of Global Affairs Canada has showcased that when women and youth are empowered as ocean stewards, the benefits extend far beyond conservation. By integrating scientific innovation with community-based knowledge and prioritizing gender equity, we can build a blue economy that is not only sustainable but also equitable, ensuring that coastal communities – who are the first impacted by ocean degradation – become the primary architects of its regeneration,’ said Perpetua Angima, Mission inclusion’s ReSea Chief of Party.
The summit brings together a diverse network of researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and community leaders to co-develop bold pathways towards a regenerative blue economy, tackling climate change while fostering sustainable economic growth.
‘Regenerative Ocean Week is more than just a gathering—it’s a powerful moment of convergence for the growing African ocean community and global changemakers committed to action. As Ocean Innovation Africa, we are proud to power and co-host this initiative, which fosters collaboration, accelerates solutions, and strengthens the networks needed to drive systemic change,’ said Alexis Grosskopf and Rex Bowden, Co-Founders of Ocean Innovation Africa.
‘This year is especially critical. As the world faces mounting geopolitical tensions and an escalating climate crisis, it is clear that the emerging economies must take the lead in addressing ocean challenges that disproportionately impact our communities. With the UN Ocean Conference and the IUCN World Conservation Congress on the horizon, ROW is designed as a catalyst, ensuring that African voices, solutions, and innovations reach the global stage where they can shape policy and investment.
‘Over the years, we are proud to have seen our event become a movement! A space where visionaries, investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers come together to forge real pathways for change. The momentum created here will extend far beyond the week itself, influencing decisions and driving impact where it matters most.’
The Regenerative Ocean Week is expected to set the stage for actionable commitments and multi-sectoral partnerships that will influence ocean governance, sustainable investments, and innovation across the continent.
Source : IUCN
