A new report released jointly by the World Economic Forum and the Boston Consulting Group indicates that by expanding the production of aquatic foods, Africa could generate up to $17 billion in additional economic output and create as many as 3.3 million jobs.
The report, titled *Investing in Blue Foods: Innovation and Partnerships for Impact*, explores how targeted investments, innovation, and coordinated partnerships can transform one of the continent’s least developed food sectors into a major engine for inclusive economic growth.
"Blue foods"—which include fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and aquatic plants—are increasingly viewed as a key element in meeting Africa’s growing demand for food, while simultaneously supporting employment and sustainable development.
Research suggests that doubling Africa’s aquatic food production could narrow the protein gap between the continent and the rest of the world by approximately one-quarter. Researchers warn that without strategic interventions, Africa could become the only region in the world to see a decline in per capita aquatic food consumption by 2032, as population growth outpaces the growth in production.
Reprinted from *Africa Briefing*