Ms. Charlina Vitcheva, Director General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, is scheduled to visit Tanzania from September 9 to 11, 2024.
During her visit, she will take part in the 8th Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Oceans, Inland Waters, and Fisheries of the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) on September 11 at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre. The meeting is expected to be attended by the President of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
This visit highlights the ongoing commitment of the European Union (EU) to enhance collaboration with Tanzania in the fisheries and blue economy sectors. Ms. Vitcheva had previously visited in 2023 and met with the President of Zanzibar, Dr. Hussein Mwinyi.
Prior to the OACPS ministerial meeting, Ms. Vitcheva will visit the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI) in Kunduchi to learn about their research efforts in marine ecosystem conservation. She will also meet with Tanzanian start-ups involved in the Blue Invest Africa initiative, focusing on sustainable solutions for the blue economy.
Additionally, Ms. Vitcheva will hold a bilateral meeting with Hon. Abdallah Ulega, Tanzania’s Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, as part of her agenda.
The EU’s support in Tanzania includes the flagship Blue Economy for Job Creation and Climate Adaptation Programme, amounting to TZS 332.5 billion (EUR 110 million). This program aims to develop a climate-resilient Blue Economy in Tanzania and promote sustainable fisheries management.
Through this initiative, the EU prioritizes the protection of coastal ecosystems, the promotion of sustainable businesses, and governance and policy reforms to foster long-term growth.
This content is distributed by APO Group on behalf of the Delegation of the European Union to the United Republic of Tanzania and the East African Community.