Fuelling a Wave of Change: ReSea Project Launches Blue Economy Bootcamp for Tanzania's Coastal Entrepreneurs

In the vibrant coastal communities of the Tanga–Pemba Seascape, a transformative initiative is taking root.

This week, the ReSea Project officially launched a seven-day Blue Economy Bootcamp, bringing together 24 women and youth entrepreneurs poised to become leaders in a more sustainable and inclusive economy.

These participants, active in fields from sea cucumber farming to seaweed processing, represent the future of their communities. Yet, they often face significant barriers: limited access to business skills, sustainable value chain knowledge, and financing.

“Coastal women entrepreneurs face real challenges,” notes Genevieve Gauthier, Director of International Programmes at Mission inclusion. “This bootcamp directly addresses these gaps by equipping participants with practical tools to build viable enterprises in the Blue Economy.”

The bootcamp is just the first step. It kicks off a seven-month incubation program designed to provide ongoing mentorship and support. To guide this journey, two key resources were unveiled at the launch: the Blue Economy Entrepreneurship Trainers Manual and the Soft Skills Manual. These toolkits offer practical, localized guidance to help entrepreneurs turn their vision into reality.

Building an Economy for People and Planet

The Blue Economy offers a powerful opportunity for economic growth that respects both communities and the environment. But unlocking its full potential requires a shift in perspective.

“A just Blue Economy requires women and youth as active leaders—not passive beneficiaries,” says Andreanne Martel, ReSea Project Director at Mission inclusion. “They are already driving innovation and environmental stewardship in coastal communities. This training recognizes their leadership and provides the tools to expand their impact.”

This sentiment is shared by the project’s partners, who see the bootcamp as a catalyst for systemic change.

Key to success in entrepreneurship is the development of soft skills, encompassing people skills and interpersonal skills to build self-confidence of women and youth, increasing their motivation and interest in either starting or expanding a blue economy business.

“As we grow in entrepreneurship skills, let us also develop inner strengths that shape us into resilient women and youth who can advocate for women’s rights through our voices during this time of transformation. Let your voices gain the power to enhance the meaningful participation of women in the Blue Economy,” said Glory Mbia, Women Fund Tanzania-Trust (WFTT) Gender Coordinator for the ReSea Project.

“This is more than a skills workshop; it’s a transformative process,” emphasizes Amon Maenda, Ocean Hub Africa (OHA) Representative. “It enables participants to advance to the next stage of their entrepreneurial journey and become key agents of change.”

Dr. Elinasi Monga, IUCN Regional Programme Manager, adds, “Our goal is to transform these barriers into viable solutions that improve community livelihoods while ensuring environmental sustainability.”

A Call to Action for a Thriving Future

The launch event culminated in a powerful call to action from Dr. Batilda Burian, Tanga Regional Commissioner, who officiated the ceremony.

“To all participants, especially women and youth: consider the knowledge you gain here as a gateway to impact,” she urged. “Use it to uplift your families, strengthen your economic groups, and inspire your communities. Launch innovative businesses, add value to marine products, and become champions of equity and progress in the blue economy.”

This bootcamp marks a pivotal moment for the entrepreneurs and for the future of Tanzania’s coastal economy—a future built on inclusion, innovation, and shared prosperity.

Download the full press release here

The ReSea Project is implemented by Mission inclusion and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with the support of Global Affairs Canada.