For the first time, Cameroon has quantified its blue economy, which already represents 5.8% of GDP and generates 22.6 trillion FCFA in ecosystem wealth, according to a study supported by the ECA.

A Blue Economy Quantified for the First Time

Long relegated to the status of a diffuse sector, Cameroon’s blue economy is finally benefiting from a rigorous statistical assessment. Conducted with the support of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Cameroonian Ministry of Economy, this study reveals that the sector contributes 5.8% to the national GDP and nearly 3% to total employment.

Current Contribution and Untapped Potential

Agriculture, forestry, and fishing alone account for 68.28% of the gross value added of the blue economy, highlighting a strong dependence on primary activities. These figures highlight a largely untapped potential, extending well beyond fishing and offshore hydrocarbons to encompass all marine and coastal ecosystem services.

22.6 trillion FCFA of ecosystem services

The value of services provided by blue ecosystems – climate regulation, coastal protection, biodiversity – is estimated at 22.6 trillion FCFA, representing a strategic asset often invisible in national public accounts. This initial quantification marks a methodological shift and provides a harmonized statistical foundation to guide public policy.

Yaoundé Workshop: Birth of a Technical Committee

From January 27 to 30, 2026, a high-level workshop in Yaoundé brought together nearly 40 national experts from the fisheries, tourism, energy, environment, and statistics sectors. Trained in blue economy assessment, these specialists now form the technical committee tasked with developing the sector’s future national strategy.

Perspectives for a National Strategy

This assessment represents a crucial milestone in structuring the blue economy as a pillar of Cameroonian development. It paves the way for upgrading primary activities, developing coastal tourism, and better utilizing offshore energy and fisheries resources.

Challenges for Sustainable Development

Faced with this potential, Cameroon will have to address several challenges: strengthening marine resource governance, investing in training, and promoting sustainable exploitation compatible with climate objectives. Integrating ecosystem value into national accounts could also transform the perception of the oceans as a major economic driver for Central Africa.