Strengthening Regional Ties to Boost the Fisheries Industry in Jubaland

In a significant step towards advancing the fisheries industry in Jubaland, the Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Ahmed Hassan Cumar, alongside the Minister of Trade, Hon. Ibrahim Hassan Abdi, and representatives from the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, successfully concluded a week-long mission to Mombasa County, Kenya. The mission, which aimed at fostering trade and creating market linkages for the Jubaland fishing community, marked a pivotal moment in the region’s economic development efforts.
During the mission, the delegation met with key officials from Mombasa County, including the County Secretary, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, the CECM for Blue Economy, and the CEO of the Mombasa Investment Corporation. These discussions centered on the existing trade relations in the fisheries sector and explored avenues for deeper cooperation. The highlight of the visit was the signing of a letter of intent to cooperate, signaling a commitment to strengthening ties between Jubaland and Mombasa.
The linkage between the two governments is of utmost importance, as it opens new opportunities for the fishing communities in Jubaland. By establishing strong trade relations and market access with neighboring Kenya, Jubaland’s fishing industry stands to benefit significantly. This collaboration will not only enhance the trade of fisheries products but also introduce best practices and technological advancements from Mombasa, which is a leading player in the blue economy.
Minister Ahmed Hassan Cumar emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating that the mission is part of a broader strategy to boost the fisheries industry in Jubaland. The Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy is committed to empowering local fishermen, improving infrastructure, and ensuring that the sector contributes meaningfully to the state’s economy. By creating market linkages with Mombasa, Jubaland’s fishing community can access larger markets, obtain better prices for their products, and ultimately improve their livelihoods.
The mission to Mombasa County is just one of the many initiatives undertaken by the Ministry to enhance the fisheries industry. The Ministry is actively working on several projects aimed at modernizing the sector, including the introduction of sustainable fishing practices, investment in cold storage facilities, and the development of fish processing plants. These efforts are designed to make Jubaland a key player in the regional fisheries market, contributing to food security, job creation, and economic growth.
The collaboration between Jubaland and Mombasa County represents a model of regional cooperation that can yield significant benefits for both parties. As the fisheries industry continues to grow, the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy remains committed to pursuing similar partnerships that will further enhance the sector and bring prosperity to the people of Jubaland.