The blue economy, which covers various ocean-related activities such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, shipping, and energy, has a huge potential for economic growth and sustainable development. However, it also has a gender gap that needs to be addressed, according to a Nigerian academic.
Professor Funmilola Agbebi, a fisheries economist and marine policy expert at the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) in Ondo State, Nigeria, made this call during her fourth inaugural lecture titled: ‘Is it a Man’s World?: Interrogating the Blue Economy Through the Gender Lens.’
She said that women have traditionally played a vital role in maintaining a harmonious relationship with the ocean and its resources, but their contribution has often been overlooked or undervalued. She added that women face significant barriers in accessing opportunities, resources, financing, technology, training, and decision-making in the blue economy.
She urged the government, the private sector, and other stakeholders to recognize and support the role of women in the blue economy, and to ensure their equal representation and participation. She also encouraged girls and women to pursue education and training in marine science, maritime engineering, and other related fields, to enable them to have successful careers in the ocean sector.
She cited examples from other countries, such as Seychelles, Mauritius, and Kenya, where women have been empowered and involved in various aspects of the blue economy, such as marine conservation, coastal management, and ocean governance.
She said that by bridging the gender gap in the blue economy, Nigeria can achieve its vision of becoming a prosperous and inclusive nation, as well as contribute to the global goals of ending poverty, hunger, inequality, and climate change.
Source: The Guardian Nigeria
