In a historic step for the continent’s maritime economy, the Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana (COA), in partnership with the World Economic Forum, has officially unveiled Africa’s first Blue Food Innovation Hub.
The initiative arrives at a critical juncture as Ghana faces the dual threats of climate change and dwindling fish stocks. By shifting the focus toward sustainable aquatic food systems, the Hub aims to protect national food security and cement Ghana’s status as a leader in the “Blue Economy.”
Delivering his keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chamber of Aquaculture, Mr. Joseph Adzikah stated that Chamber will work tireless with the consciousness of the responsibilities entrusted in the hub by creating opportunities, market and finance accessibility.
“The Blue Food Innovation Hub is being launched today to contribute to curbing critical challenges in our blue food sector”
”The hub seeks to unlock skills development, innovation, market, and financing for enterprises”
According to him, the hub also seeks to contribute in creating sustainable jobs and business opportunities particularly for women, the youth, and people living with disability along the entire value chain.
The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur stated that the hub aligns seamlessly with government’s broader agenda to modernize the fisheries and aquaculture sector through sustainability, value addition, digital transformation and inclusive growth.
Hon. Emelia Arthur emphasized that the hub will serve as a bridge connecting knowledge-to-practice, and research-to-enterprise through public-private partnership. “Today’s launch sents a powerful message to the world that Africa is charting its own course towards a sustainable blue future.”
Mr. Adzikah called on all stakeholders to collaborate and partner with the hub with the needed resources to be able to successfully deliver its mandate.
The official launch certificate signing and logo unveiling was done with partners including the World Economic Forum, Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, represented by the sector Minister, Hon. Emelia Arthur, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter, represented by the Chapter Lead, Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, and among others.
The ambitions for the Hub are backed by significant financial goals. Between 2026 and 2032, the initiative aims to attract $10 million in new investments for local “blue food” enterprises.
By identifying, screening, and training promising startups, the Hub will ensure that Ghanaian entrepreneurs are “investment-ready.” This strategy is designed to foster local solutions for fish feed and technical services, reducing the country’s reliance on costly imports.
As global populations surge and land-based farming struggles with erratic weather, blue foods, which include aquatic plants and animals are emerging as a low-carbon, nutrient-dense solution. The launch of this Hub represents a strategic move toward a more resilient, self-sufficient, and sustainable future for Ghana and the wider African continent.
