The Jahazi Project, led by Ascending Africa, is set to convene the Blue Voices Roundtable under the theme “Turning the Tide: Regional Action Against Illegal Fishing” on 1st September 2025, from 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM EAT in Dar es Salaam and virtually.

The high-level forum will bring together government officials, regional organizations, researchers, innovators, community leaders, NGOs, and private sector players to address the urgent threat of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF) in East Africa’s waters.

East Africa’s 4,600-kilometre coastline sustains more than three million people directly through fisheries. In Tanzania alone, IUUF is responsible for an estimated US$142.8 million in losses annually, while in Kenya, illegal catches account for 30–40% of the country’s total fish haul. This rampant exploitation not only strips nations of vital economic resources but also erodes the ecological foundations of the region’s Blue Economy. 

“Illegal fishing drains East Africa’s economy by over US$415 million annually, undermining livelihoods, threatening marine biodiversity, and jeopardizing food security for millions. In Tanzania alone, annual losses are estimated at US$142.8 million, while Kenya loses 30–40% of its fish catch to IUU fishing,” said Michael Mallya, spokesperson for The Jahazi Project. “This is a direct intrusion into the sovereignty of our nations and a serious threat to the livelihoods of our coastal populations. It is our duty to protect our waters, our marine territories, and our people.”

The Blue Voices Roundtable will feature thought-provoking panels on the scope and impact of IUUF in Tanzania, as well as opportunities for regional collaboration with leaders from Kenya, Mozambique, Comoros, Madagascar, and Mauritius. Participants will also explore innovative, technology-driven solutions to marine conservation, discuss policy reforms, and identify actionable strategies to strengthen cross-border enforcement, enhance community engagement, and safeguard marine ecosystems. The event will culminate in the formulation of a joint action agenda and commitments to drive long-term impact.

Participation is open to individuals and organizations working in marine conservation, fisheries management, maritime security, coastal livelihoods, technology innovation, and related sectors.