Antigua and Barbuda will in the near future make strides with the implementation and sustainibiloty of the latest ministry the Blue Economy as the twin island nation is set to work alongside Kenya to champion the Commonwealth Blue Charter Action Group.
According to the World Bank, the blue economy is the “sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystem.”
The Commonwealth Blue Charter is a commitment made by leaders of all 54 member countries to work together in tackling ocean challenges and fulfilling global commitments on ocean sustainability. It was endorsed at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London, UK in April 2018.
Ten Action Groups, led by 14 countries, implement the Commonwealth Blue Charter, each focusing on a different ocean challenge, from marine pollution to climate change.
The Action Group on Sustainable Blue Economy encourages better stewardship of ocean resources through actions such as sharing strategies and best practices, promoting green and blue innovative technologies, and financial instruments such as blue bonds and blue carbon credits. The group also seeks to empower coastal communities economically, while building their resilience to future shocks.
The Minister responsible for the Blue Economy Dean Jonas spoke briefly sharing his excitement over the news.
“We commend the Commonwealth on its development of the Blue Charter and in championing work on the sustainable blue economy. Antigua and Barbuda has long had a special relationship with the oceans.
We are, however, keen to understand more about the potential of our oceans as an economic growth area as well as balance this with protecting and promoting the health of our oceans. Antigua and Barbuda is committed to being an active member of this action group working alongside Kenya and all states who are members of this group,” Jonas said.
Patricia Scotland the Commonwealth’s Secretary-General commended the twin island nation on stepping forward to lead this initiative.
“It is very encouraging that Antigua and Barbuda, a ‘large ocean state’, has stepped forward to co-champion the sustainable stewardship of our vast ‘blue wealth’. This welcome milestone demonstrates the commitment of Commonwealth countries to leveraging ocean resources wisely, sustainably and responsibly, while tackling unemployment, food insecurity and poverty,” said Scotland.
“In this regard, the Commonwealth Blue Charter is one of the most effective platforms for countries to proactively collaborate across borders to tackle shared ocean challenges.”
Also sharing their pleasaure was Kenya’s Principal Secretary for the State Department for Fisheries, Aquaculture and the Bluie Economy Professor Micheni Japhet Ntiba.
Ntiba noted that “Kenya is very pleased to be able to welcome Antigua and Barbuda as a co-Champion”. He added that Kenya has long recognised the necessity to work together to build strong and resilient blue economies.
