Development of the Blue Economy concept in Eastern Africa: strategic frameworks and a simmering conflict

SUMMARY Eastern African small island states played a role in advancing the ‘Blue Economy’ concept prior to the Rio+20 summit in 2012, when it emerged on a global stage. As their main concern they cited threats caused by climate change to marine life, on which they are highly dependent. This briefing explores the uneven development of the various national policies geared towards the concept. It notes an emphasis on economic policies neglecting climate change and dispute settlement policies, and identifies a need for the development of an all-encompassing regional approach to maximise Blue Economy benefits in Eastern Africa.