The Bahari Mali Project is Uniting Community Entrepreneurs for a Sustainable Blue Economy in Tanzania

Over the past decade, community led initiatives in both marine and freshwater ecosystems have demonstrated the power of grassroots entrepreneurship to drive sustainable livelihoods while conserving biodiversity. From seaweed farming in coastal villages to freshwater aquaculture in inland lakes, these enterprises are proving that conservation and economic development can go hand in hand. Yet, despite their successes, many of these ventures face common challenges such as limited access to markets, inadequate investment, fragmented policy support, and insufficient networking opportunities to scale their impact.

Recognizing the need for a unifying platform, IUCN, through its flagship Bahari Mali project and in collaboration with the Government of Tanzania, has convened a two day gathering in Dar es Salaam. This event has brought together Blue Economy Incubated (BEI) community members, researchers, non governmental organizations, and key government agencies. The goal is to exchange experiences, identify collaborative opportunities, and forge stronger partnerships that can advance impactful Blue Economy interventions across Tanzania’s diverse aquatic landscapes.

At the heart of the discussions is the creation of a National Forum for Blue Economy Community Entrepreneurs. This forum will serve as a structured mechanism to unite entrepreneurial groups, government agencies, researchers, and private sector actors committed to the sustainable use and management of marine and freshwater resources. By co developing clear Terms of Reference and a practical operational roadmap, the forum will provide much needed governance and strategic direction, ensuring that conservation linked businesses not only thrive but also align with Tanzania’s national Blue Economy policies and strategies.

IUCN Tanzania/Bahari Mali Project

Looking ahead, the forum aims to become a driver of investment, innovation, and sustainable livelihoods. By addressing shared challenges and leveraging collective strengths, it will help safeguard the resilience of Tanzania’s marine and freshwater ecosystems, ensuring that communities who depend on them today can continue to do so for generations to come. This collaborative approach is not just about economic opportunity, it is about building a future where people and nature flourish together.