Joel Onyango, Benard Simiyu, Maureen Kabasa
In recent years, the concept of the blue economy has gained traction as a comprehensive and sustainable strategy for maximizing the potential of oceans and marine resources. Central to this economic paradigm is the principle of inclusivity, which emphasizes the ethical use of marine ecosystems for the benefit of all stakeholders, from local coastal communities to global corporations.
One of the key pillars of the blue economy is the empowerment of underprivileged areas, particularly in regions like Kwale and Kilifi counties in Kenya. In these coastal regions, women are playing a crucial role in sectors such as fishing, agriculture, and tourism. However, they often face barriers that limit their economic opportunities. By implementing innovative peer-to-peer learning models inclusive business models that integrate women into the value chains of core business activities, these communities are working towards gender equality and economic sustainability.
This synthesized blog provides a holistic overview of the key themes and insights from the various insights on the Blue Empowerment (BE) project, highlighting the importance of community empowerment, gender equality, sustainable practices, and innovation within the blue economy framework.
Inclusivity in the blue economy
The BE initiatives underscore the value of inclusion in the blue economy and the role that ethical usage of marine ecosystems plays in benefiting all parties involved, from multinational enterprises to small coastal communities. The insights from "Empowering Coastal Communities through Peer-to-Peer Learning" highlights the collaborative approach taken in the BE Project to empower local communities by fostering inclusive practices. The publication emphasizes that by sharing knowledge and resources, coastal communities can maximize their potential and contribute to sustainable economic growth within the blue economy framework.
While the insights from the BE Project aligns with various thoughts that argue that inclusivity in the blue economy is essential for sustainable development, since it ensures that all stakeholders, including local communities and marginalized groups, benefit from marine resources, with the assumption that inclusive practices promote social equity, reduce poverty, and foster community resilience. Critics may argue that inclusivity can be challenging to implement effectively, especially in highly regulated industries where power dynamics and economic interests can hinder fair resource distribution. There are also concerns about the potential exploitation of vulnerable populations in the name of inclusivity.
Empowerment of Coastal Women
There is a strong focus on empowering women in coastal communities through inclusive business models. Insights from "The Role of Women in Seaweed Farming" focus on the significant role that women play in seaweed farming in Kenya's coastal regions. Essentially, actively involving women in seaweed cultivation and processing activities, as described in the write-up, highlights how inclusive business models empower women economically and contribute to gender equality in traditionally male-dominated industries. The story from Mama Fatuma, is a classical example of how interventions that support women in the coast of Kenya, have the potential of empowering women. In her story, she narrates how she was initially involved with seaweeds farming, and how this has transformed her life, and lives of women in Kibuyuni village.
Despite the relational aspects between inclusive models and empowerment, critics may question whether gender-specific empowerment initiatives perpetuate stereotypes or reinforce existing power imbalances within coastal communities. This does raise concerns on the sustainability and scalability of women empowerment programs in the long term. In a recent discussion with community representatives in Kwale, that has been involved in the Blue Empowerment project, it emerged that there are fears from some men in the community on the implication of women that are considered too empowered and challenge the cultural natural order of things. This fear seem to be reducing, noting that the changes are inevitable, and how the men fit into the mural of the future community needs to transform. This points to the room for men to work as accelerants of empowerment.
“Sisi kama kinababa, tumejionea faida ya kumwezesha mama. Yaani mama akiwezeshwa, sisi wote tunanufaika, hata kama wenzangu wengine inawabidi wafungue macho zaidi.”
As men, we see the benefits of empowering women, When women are empowered, we all benefit, even though some men still need more awareness on this benefit.
Nonetheless, advocates of women’s empowerment argue that empowering coastal women in the blue economy leads to increased economic independence, improved livelihoods, and enhanced gender equality. There is emphasis on involving women in decision-making processes and economic activities to help communities from diverse perspectives and inclusive solutions. The BE project agrees with this notion, highlighting the challenges faced by women in various sectors such as fishing, agriculture, and tourism, and the significance of integrating them into the value chains of core business activities for economic sustainability.
Gender Dynamics and Socio-economic Shift
One of the major concerns of gender dynamics and social shifts in the blue economy sector is the possibility of focusing solely on gender dynamics and overlooking other crucial factors that influence socio-economic shifts in coastal communities, such as governance structures, market forces, or technological advancements. There could also be concerns about unintended consequences or resistance to changing traditional gender roles. On the other hand, proponents emphasize that addressing gender dynamics in aquaculture and other blue economy sectors can lead to positive socio-economic transformations, such as improved household income, better resource management practices, and enhanced community resilience. Gender equality benefits both men and women by creating more inclusive and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The brief on "Empowering Women in Aquaculture: A Path towards Socio-economic Transformation" delves into the changing gender dynamics and socio-economic implications of women's participation in aquaculture. The brief argues that by analysing the intersection between gender roles, economic activities, and community welfare, it makes it possible to understand the transformative impact of aquaculture on coastal communities. In general, the BE project highlights how aquaculture is influencing gender and socio-economic dynamics in coastal communities in Kenya. It sheds light on the interplay between local microeconomic factors and gender dynamics, emphasizing the impact on community welfare and wellbeing.
Sustainable seaweed farming
The discussions around seaweed farming in Kenya's coastal region underscore the socio-economic dividends and global demand for seaweed. Insights from the BE project explore how seaweed farming offers economic opportunities while also playing a key role in ocean ecosystems and environmental conservation. Supporters argue that seaweed farming offers a sustainable alternative to traditional fishing practices, contributing to marine conservation efforts and providing economic opportunities for coastal communities. Seaweed cultivation can help restore degraded ecosystems, mitigate climate change, and meet the increasing global demand for seaweed products.
On the other hand, critics may raise concerns about the potential environmental impacts of large-scale seaweed farming, such as habitat destruction, nutrient pollution, or genetic contamination. There could also be debates on the social implications of seaweed farming, including land tenure issues and resource conflicts. The brief on "Harnessing the Potential of Seaweed Farming for Sustainable Development" explores the sustainable practices and economic opportunities offered by seaweed farming. The brief emphasizes the environmental benefits of seaweed cultivation and its role in promoting marine biodiversity, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices within the blue economy.
Promoting women's empowerment
While critics may question whether a singular focus on women's empowerment neglects broader issues of social justice and equality within the blue economy. This opens debates on the effectiveness of gender-specific interventions in addressing systemic challenges or intersecting forms of discrimination. Women empowerment is a recurring theme in the BE project, with an emphasis on its importance as a developmental agenda adopted globally. Discussions in the BE briefs provide insights into how empowering women in fish and aquaculture industries, especially in the context of the post-COVID-19 pandemic, contributes to broader developmental strategies at international, regional, and national levels.
Insights from the brief on "Feminist Leadership in the Blue Economy," focus is on women's empowerment and leadership in fostering sustainable development within the blue economy. By highlighting the vital role of feminist leaders like Mama Fatuma in driving positive change and advocating for women's rights in coastal communities, the brief exemplifies how women's empowerment is a driving force for progress in the blue economy. Proponents of this narrative assert that promoting women's empowerment in the blue economy is a critical pathway to achieving sustainable development goals, fostering innovation, and promoting social inclusion. They argue that women's leadership and participation can drive positive change, enhance community resilience, and contribute to more equitable and just societies.
In conclusion, the exploration of the blue economy and its impact on coastal communities is a compelling demonstration of how inclusive and sustainable practices can empower and benefit all stakeholders. The emphasis on inclusivity not only fosters collaborative approaches but also enables the ethical use of marine ecosystems for the economic betterment of local communities. The particular focus on empowering women in various sectors, such as in aquaculture, proves the transformative potential of gender equality within the blue economy. Moreover, the promotion of sustainable practices, such as seaweed farming, highlights the crucial balance between economic opportunities and environmental conservation. Insights from the BE project underscore the importance of community empowerment, gender equality, sustainable practices, and innovation within the blue economy framework, contributing to a more inclusive and fair future for coastal communities.