NAIROBI, (KENYA)- The diaspora side event of the Sustainable Blue Economy took place on Monday at the Taifa Hall, University of Nairobi, bringing together delegates from different parts of the world with common interest in identifying the role of the global diaspora for international development and international solidarity.
Delegates from different organisations gave their observations, challenges and ideas towards creating a sustainable Blue Economy while putting into consideration the role of the diaspora.
Michael Pillinger, Chief of Mission of IOM Kenya while giving his speech said the Global Diaspora plays a huge role in creating a Sustainable Blue Economy.
Michael Pillinger, Chief of Mission of IOM Kenya and Romina D. Sta. Clara, project manager, International Organization for Migration during the Diaspora side event at the Universirty. CREDIT| WYCLIFFE NYAWADE, CHAMS MEDIA
"The direct and indirect roles of the diaspora in developing a sustainable blue economy cannot be underestimated," he said.
"The Diaspora incredibly contributes to the development and growth of Kenya's national economy."
Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ababu Namwamba while giving the government position, said Kenya is proud to have more productive members of the diaspora.
"We are pleased to see Kenyans abroad taking advantage of the fora we have had and increasing their investments back home," he says.
Foreign Affairs Chief Administrative Secretary Ababu Namwamba says the diaspora plays a huge role in creating sustainable blue economy. CREDIT| WYCLIFFE NYAWADE, CHAMS MEDIA
Amadou Cisse, the Interim Executive Director, African Institute for Remittances (AIR) says the African Diaspora has set specific goals on the contribution to the Blue Economy that aims to improve investments. The goals include support to organisations that protect oceans and marine resources.
"At the community level, we have activities that should be supported and I think the diaspora will help in those activities."
In summary, the panelists highlighted the role f the global diaspora in harnessing the Blue Economy through investments thus improved remittances to various countries.
The historic Diaspora has more than 100 million people all over the world -Prof Paul Tiyambe Zaleza, vice-chancellor of USIU.
And this week, The Chamwada Report presents an in-depth analysis of the Blue Economy Conference but with special focus on the role of the diaspora.
On the show, which aired Thursday on KTN News at 8.30pm, Alex Chamwada spoke with various leaders of organizations and state agencies. The show highlighted the special role of the diaspora, the opportunities in the sector and how the skills in the diaspora can be put to bear in creating a sustainable blue economy.