Investing in Blue Foods 2026

Risks of unmanaged growth and the imperative for safeguards3 The expansion of Africa’s blue foods industry brings risks that need careful management, including: –Biodiversity loss from overfishing –Ecological disruption from poorly managed aquaculture –Social displacement and loss of consumer trust Biodiversity loss from overfishing Unregulated capture fishing (wild harvest from oceans, lakes and rivers) can deplete already stressed stocks. Many of Africa’s coastal ecosystems face rising pressure from industrial fleets and limited monitoring. Strong safeguards across the continent are needed to ensure that vulnerable stocks and livelihoods can sustain expanding harvests. Ecological disruption from poorly managed aquaculture Aquaculture can ease pressure on wild fisheries but, if mismanaged, can create ecological disruptions. Past experiences, such as the introduction of non-native species in Lake Victoria, underline the importance of science-based risk assessment. Unsustainable siting, feed practices and waste disposal also degrade water quality, harm wetlands and mangroves, and heighten disease risks. These effects have social consequences too: women and children may spend more time securing clean water, increasing exposure to disease and reducing productivity. Social displacement and loss of consumer trust Rapid, unplanned expansion can displace small- scale fishers, restricting access to traditional fishing zones and markets. This deepens poverty and inequality, particularly for women and youth involved in processing and trade. At the same time, many consumers perceive farmed fish as inferior to wild-caught – raising doubts over taste, safety and cultural acceptability. Without greater transparency, certification and consistent product quality, these perceptions could slow adoption and weaken trust in aquaculture as a sustainable food. Environmental safeguards Protect and regenerate critical ecosystems The expansion and development of aquaculture and fisheries need to safeguard biodiversity, actively regenerate fish stock and marine ecosystems, and strengthen climate resilience. For example, seaweed farming can sequester carbon, when well managed. Rather than avoiding sensitive habitats such as mangroves and coral reefs, investments can help regenerate and protect them – as long as any development recognizes these ecosystems as living infrastructure that sustains coastal fisheries and provides key ecosystem services. Africa holds about 20%47 of the world’s mangroves, making their protection and restoration a continental priority. Prevent ecological disruption It is essential that the introduction of non-native species is well regulated through science-based risk assessments. Without such controls, aquaculture can cause severe ecological imbalance. For example, the introduction of the non-native Nile perch to Lake Victoria drove many native species to extinction. Likewise, destructive capture methods such as bottom trawling can devastate seabed habitats and release vast amounts of stored carbon. Strong governance, biosecurity and regionally harmonized policies are essential to prevent similar outcomes.3.1 As Africa scales up blue foods, safeguards are neededUnmanaged growth in blue foods carries real risks that could undermine long-term gains. Africa holds about 20% of the world’s mangroves, making their protection and restoration a continental priority. Investing in Blue Foods: Innovation and Partnerships for Impact 13