After a succesful writing retreat in Lomé, Togo, the PEPP-team participated in the launch of the Africa Blue Economy Network at the Royal Nick Hotel in Tema, Ghana on April 12.

Africa Blue Economy Network (ABEN) will work as a platform to promote research, learning, and practical application of blue economy principles through multidisciplinary collaboration.The launch builds on findings and perspectives from PEPP II on the blue economy and Africa’s development, which was also presented by PEPP II researchers Prof. Annette Skovsted Hansen, Prof. George Acheampong, Prof. Vera Fiador, Prof. Abena Animwaa Yeboah-Banin, Prof. George vanDyck, and Prof. Martin Arvad Nicolaisen.

Joining Thomas Roslyng Olesen and Kathrine Gjesing Hansen from Maritime Research Alliance as keynote speakers was Michael Ekow Manuel, Academic Dean of the World Maritime University. He emphasized how “the future of the blue economy is green” and the importance of partnerships.