The highly anticipated BlueInvest Africa 2024 is set to take place on 3rd and 4th July in Kwale County, Kenya. The event is supported by the Government of Kenya and funded by the European Commission Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE).

BlueInvest Africa is a business-to-business event, that aims to catalyse the growth of Africa's blue economy through strategic investments in small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The business event will bring together key stakeholders from across the continent and beyond to explore opportunities for sustainable development in “blue economy” sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, IT technologies, robotics, marine pollution, plastic litters, and renewable energy. The primary goal is to attract partners willing and equipped to foster the development of these projects.

In her opening remarks, the Principal Secretary State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Ms. Betsy Muthoni Njagi emphasised that, the “Global Blue Economy is the 7th largest in the world, providing direct jobs and generating revenues’. She then affirmed that, “Kenya has committed to diversification of its resource base by exploring its marine resources as an alternative means to secure livelihoods for its citizens who have overtime disproportionately relied on land as the foundation for economic growth”.

Contrary to more conventional conferences related to the subject, BlueInvest Africa is designed as a business-to-business platform for actionable discussions and networking, where public and private sector leaders can forge partnerships and investments that drive tangible economic impact. By focusing on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, the event aims to empower local entrepreneurs and communities, fostering inclusive growth and resilience in Africa's coastal regions.

"I am thrilled to announce the BlueInvest Africa 2024 edition in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, a pivotal business-to-business event that underscores our commitment to advancing Africa's blue economy," remarked Her Excellency Henriette Geiger. "Through collaboration and investment, we can unlock the immense potential of Africa's maritime resources, driving sustainable development and prosperity for generations to come."

In his address His Excellency CS Salim Mvurya stated that “Kenya is one of Africa’s 38 coastal states and a pioneer in the blue economy. BlueInvest Africa will earmark our commitment to find sustainable solutions from the oceans for long term economic growth.” His Excellency further added that “we call upon the private sector, as now is the time to invest in the blue economy for the prosperity of local communities.”

The focus for 2024 is to spotlight transformative projects within maritime and coastal sectors, as well as interior waters, emphasising sustainable innovation, job creation, and marine ecosystem preservation.

This event provides a unique platform for African-based companies and global investors to forge strategic alliances, exchange knowledge, and propel the blue economy to unprecedented heights. BlueInvest Africa 2024 is more than just an event; it's a movement towards a sustainable future, driven by the shared vision of a thriving blue economy that benefits Africa.

Find out more on the Blue Invest Website