The East African coastline has long been a source of life, culture, and economic opportunity. From the ancient trade routes of the Swahili Coast to today’s fishing-dependent communities, the ocean has sustained millions of people for centuries.
Yet, this lifeline is under growing threat. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing alone drains over US$415 million annually from the region’s economy, depleting fish stocks and eroding livelihoods.
In response to these urgent challenges, Ascending Africa, a pan-African organisation committed to fostering sustainable development across the continent, has launched The Jahazi Project, an initiative dedicated to protecting the ocean while unlocking the true potential of East Africa’s Blue Economy.
“Jahazi,” the Swahili word for a traditional dhow, represents not just a vessel but a symbol of heritage, resilience, and navigation. The project embodies this symbolism: guiding coastal communities through uncertain waters toward a future where marine ecosystems are preserved and economic opportunities are shared more equitably.
The Blue Economy encompasses all economic activities connected to oceans, seas, and coastal areas—from fisheries and aquaculture to tourism, shipping, and renewable energy. For East Africa, its potential is transformative.
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By 2030, the region’s Blue Economy is projected to reach US$405 billion, offering pathways to job creation, food security, and climate resilience. But this promise is fragile.
Unsustainable practices, weak enforcement, and limited community participation threaten to undermine both ecological balance and long-term growth. Without decisive action, millions who depend on the sea will face dwindling resources and uncertain futures.
The Jahazi Project aims to chart a different course. At its core, the initiative is about restoring balance between economic opportunity and environmental stewardship. This begins with tackling the crisis of IUU fishing by working alongside governments, regional security forces, and international partners to strengthen maritime surveillance, close regulatory loopholes, and protect vital fish stocks.
At the same time, the project emphasises the empowerment of coastal communities. By building capacity, supporting sustainable fishing cooperatives, and creating opportunities for alternative livelihoods, The Jahazi Project ensures that local people are not passive beneficiaries but active guardians of their marine resources.
Policy advocacy is another cornerstone of the mission. Engaging policymakers at both national and regional levels, the initiative seeks to influence frameworks that harmonise economic growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring prosperity is not pursued at the expense of ecological integrity.
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Education and awareness further strengthen this mission. Through schools, universities, and grassroots groups, The Jahazi Project inspires the next generation to value and defend their marine heritage. By fostering environmental literacy, the initiative instils responsibility and pride that will endure well beyond its lifespan.
No single entity can safeguard the oceans alone. The Jahazi Project is designed as a collaborative platform, bringing together governments, NGOs, investors, and local leaders. By pooling resources and expertise, the initiative amplifies ongoing efforts while creating space for innovation and shared accountability.
In its first phase, the project will focus on priority coastal areas in Tanzania, Kenya, and Mozambique, with plans to expand across the Southwest Indian Ocean region. Activities will include piloting community-driven marine conservation zones and supporting joint patrols against illegal fishing vessels.
The long-term vision is clear: 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 not only to protect the ocean but also to inspire ownership and pride among the very people who depend on it most.
As the tides of climate change, overfishing, and economic pressure continue to rise, initiatives like The Jahazi Project remind us that solutions are possible when communities, leaders, and visionaries row in the same direction.
East Africa’s future is tied to the sea. With The Jahazi Project, the region is taking a decisive step to ensure that this bond remains a source of strength, prosperity, and hope.
Michael Mallya is the spokesperson for the Jahazi Project, leading strategic communication and stakeholder engagement. He’s available at Email: michael.mallya@jahaziproject.org and on X as @michael_mallya. These are the writer’s own opinions, and they do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of The Chanzo. Do you want to publish in this space? Contact our editors at editor@thechanzo.com for further inquiries.
