By Faridat Salifu
Ascending Africa has launched The Jahazi Project, an initiative dedicated to protecting the East African coastline while unlocking the region’s Blue Economy potential.
Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing drains over US$415 million annually from the region’s economy, depleting fish stocks and undermining livelihoods.
The project’s name, “Jahazi,” a traditional Swahili dhow, symbolizes heritage, resilience, and guidance for coastal communities navigating economic and environmental challenges.
The Blue Economy covers all economic activities connected to oceans and coasts, including fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, shipping, and renewable energy.
East Africa’s Blue Economy is projected to reach US$405 billion by 2030, offering opportunities for job creation, food security, and climate resilience.
Unsustainable practices, weak enforcement, and limited community participation threaten both ecological balance and long-term growth in the region.
The Jahazi Project focuses on restoring the balance between economic opportunity and environmental stewardship by tackling IUU fishing and strengthening maritime surveillance.
It also empowers coastal communities through sustainable fishing cooperatives, alternative livelihoods, and capacity-building programs.
Policy advocacy, education, and awareness campaigns aim to instill environmental literacy and pride among the next generation of coastal residents.
The initiative brings together governments, NGOs, investors, and local leaders to pool resources, share expertise, and enhance accountability.
In its first phase, the project will target priority coastal areas in Tanzania, Kenya, and Mozambique, with plans to expand across the Southwest Indian Ocean.
Activities will include piloting community-driven marine conservation zones and supporting joint patrols against illegal fishing vessels.
The long-term vision is a thriving East African coastline where marine ecosystems are healthy, economies are resilient, and cultural heritage is preserved.
By invoking the spirit of the dhow, The Jahazi Project seeks to inspire ownership and pride among the communities that depend on the ocean.
Initiatives like The Jahazi Project demonstrate that coordinated action can protect marine resources while fostering sustainable growth in East Africa.
