Forum on Marine Economy to Highlight Opportunities

From October 26 to 28, the Social and Solidarity Forum on Marine Economy in Mayotte (FOSSEMM) will bring together professionals in the blue economy at the Dembéni Technopole. The event aims to showcase the diverse professions and opportunities in this sector, especially for young people and those far from the job market.

Event Features Conferences and Workshops

During the three days, the FOSSEMM will host conferences, round tables, a village of professions, and discovery workshops. The goal is to use the sea as a driver for innovation and development in Mayotte while raising awareness among youth about the professional opportunities available in the marine sector.

Innov’Action 976 Competition to Follow

From October 28 to 30, the Innov’Action 976 competition will continue the momentum by promoting innovative projects, particularly those focused on biodiversity, the chosen theme for this year. This competition aims to identify and support new initiatives in the marine economy.

Mayotte’s Untapped Maritime Potential

Mayotte, surrounded by the lagoon and with a vast exclusive economic zone, has significant potential in maritime activities. Hugues Makengo, general director of Mlezi Maoré, notes that the island is "turning its back to the sea," despite its proximity to it. The forum seeks to change this perception by showcasing the opportunities in the blue economy for all, including those with limited qualifications.

Supporting Traditional and Emerging Sectors

Traditional fishing and salt production are among the key sectors highlighted. Makengo emphasizes the need to support local communities such as the Mama Shingo in Bandrélé and women engaged in djarifa fishing. Training, certification, equipment, and cooperative development could help these activities become sustainable and offer opportunities to young people.

Diverse Opportunities in the Marine Economy

Beyond fishing, the marine economy offers opportunities in fish processing, naval mechanics, nautical activities, and tourism. Makengo encourages young people to pursue careers aligned with their interests and the local economic landscape, while also promoting partnerships between educational institutions and tourism professionals.

Exhibitions and Recruitment Opportunities

The village of professions will allow young people to meet exhibitors and learn about training and job opportunities. Conferences and round tables will provide platforms for discussions with specialists, while a stand from the French Navy will focus on recruitment, offering careers at various qualification levels, even for those without a baccalaureate.

Innovation Week Focuses on Local Needs

Mamadou Konaté, director of the Mayotte Agency for Development and Innovation (ADIM), emphasizes that the Innovation Week should raise awareness among all local actors, including businesses, students, and citizens. While the marine economy is a key focus, innovation in Mayotte often involves improving existing practices to meet local needs.

Supporting Local Initiatives and Investors

The ADIM supports project leaders in areas like waste valorization and fishing development. The Innov’Action 976 competition aims to identify and assist new initiatives with technical, financial, and marketing support. Selected project leaders can receive up to 10,000 euros to help launch their projects.

Event Designed for Continued Impact

The organizers aim to make FOSSEMM a recurring event, with future editions planned every two years. A FOSSEMM Club will facilitate ongoing exchanges between participants, and an annual journal, Mayotte Océan, will be published to keep the conversation going on maritime issues.

International Collaboration and Long-Term Vision

The first edition of FOSSEMM will include participants from the Caribbean, sharing experiences on engaging youth in maritime professions. Hugues Makengo sees the event as a starting point for long-term efforts, emphasizing the need for concrete outcomes from the forum for all involved.

Aquatic Competence as a Priority

Learning to swim remains a challenge in Mayotte due to a lack of infrastructure. The forum highlights the need for improved access to aquatic environments and the importance of preventing drownings. Coralie Balmy, an Olympic freestyle champion, has been named the event’s godmother to raise awareness about swimming skills and aquatic safety.

Long-Term Campaign for Aquatic Safety

Hugues Makengo calls for a long-term campaign to prioritize aquatic competence in Mayotte, aiming for 2027. He acknowledges the need for sustained efforts involving local authorities, associations, and other stakeholders to address the issue effectively and ensure that everyone can safely interact with water.