NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 18 – President William Ruto says Kenya has invested more than Sh145 billion in developing the country’s blue economy ecosystem, in a bid to unlock growth from ocean-based resources and strengthen sustainable marine development.
In a statement shared on social media, President Ruto said the investment is aimed at ensuring the blue economy contributes meaningfully to Kenya’s long-term economic growth and job creation.
He emphasized that Kenya remains committed to advancing global efforts on ocean governance and ocean financing, noting that sustainable management of marine resources is critical to shared global prosperity.
The President made the remarks after meeting the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean, Peter Thomson, on the sidelines of the 11th Ocean Conference held in Mombasa.
The two leaders discussed strategies to deepen collaboration in sustainable ocean management, strengthen financing mechanisms for ocean conservation, and enhance Kenya’s role in global maritime governance.
Kenya’s blue economy agenda focuses on expanding opportunities in fisheries, maritime transport, coastal tourism, marine conservation, and offshore resources, while ensuring environmental sustainability.
The government has in recent years increased investment in port infrastructure, coastal development, and marine research as part of its broader economic transformation strategy.
Ruto reiterated that Kenya’s partnership with the United Nations and other global stakeholders will remain central in promoting sustainable use of ocean resources and addressing climate-related challenges affecting marine ecosystems.
The discussions in Mombasa are expected to strengthen international cooperation on ocean financing, marine protection, and sustainable blue economy development.
