Implementation plan of the Congolese strategy for the blue economy format (2025-2030)

1. Context The Congolese strategy for the blue economy aims to focus on alignment with the African strategy for the blue economy of the AU-IBAR adopted in October 2019 and based essentially on five detailed thematic areas considered essential to growth. sustainable and inclusive blue economy in Africa. These are the following thematic areas: 1. Fisheries, aquaculture, mariculture, conservation and sustainable aquatic ecosystems 2. Navigation/transport, commerce, ports 3. Coastal and maritime tourism, climate change, resilience, environment, infrastructure 4. Sustainable energy and mineral resources and innovative industries 5. Policies, institutional governance, employment, job creation and poverty eradication, innovative financing

6. Maritime safety, security and enforcement It should be noted that these five thematic areas emerged from the framework of the Sustainable Blue Economy Conference in Nairobi in November 2018. The objectives of the conference were in line with the vision of the AU-IBAR Strategic Plan 2018-2023 and to the African Union Agenda 2063, both contributing to the inclusive and secure transformation and growth of Africa. However, the sixth thematic area listed above will be consolidated by the stakeholder consultative workshop to be held from April 24 to 26, 2024 in Kinshasa. Therefore, the implementation of the DRConglese blue economy strategy is an essential instrument capable of helping to stimulate sustainable economic growth, social prosperity and inclusion, as well as environmental management and protection. These objectives would effectively be achieved by building on the recommendations of the STC-ARDWE of October 2019. Among the recommendations imposed on the African Union Commission are: i. support adequate awareness, capacity building and sharing of best practices regarding the application of the blue economy concept; ii. support the establishment of blue governance mechanisms to ensure planning and coordination at continental, regional and national levels; And 1 iii. mobilize resources for the implementation of the Blue Economy Strategy Master Plan in Africa. Based on the recommendations set out above, AU-IBAR was able to develop an implementation plan for the Congolese strategy for the blue economy thanks to the support of the Kingdom of Norway. The development of the implementation plan requires the engagement of blue economy stakeholders, representatives of coastal communities and other relevant government agencies in a consultative workshop developed to turn it into a national document. This stems from the concept of the blue economy which involves the conservation of marine ecosystem services and natural capital with the aim of improving human livelihoods and economic growth consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals. In light of the above, the current implementation plan will serve the Congolese Blue Economy Strategy (SCEB) as the nation's leading strategy to initiate actions aimed at harnessing the potential for sustainable and inclusive development. in the Democratic Republic of Congo and to maximize opportunities for a more advanced and inclusive development of an efficient blue economy in the DRC.

2. Objectives and content The implementation plan for Congo's blue economy strategy proposes a path to avoid the challenges that hinder the implementation of the blue economy strategy. The timetable for the implementation plan will be determined during the national consultation workshop. It fully captures the relevant elements of the DRC blue economy, including activities, implementation timelines, expected results, verification measures and actors. The Implementation Plan will therefore contribute to the achievement of Agenda 2063 of the African Union; the African Integrated Maritime Strategy 2014 (AIMS 2050); the 2014 Policy 2 Framework and Reform Strategy for African Fisheries and Aquaculture (PFRS); the 2015 United Nations 2030 Agenda (Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs); and the 2016 African Charter on Maritime Security and Safety and Development in Africa (Lomé Charter). The Implementation Plan is structured around the 6 thematic areas mentioned above, namely:

1. Fisheries, aquaculture, mariculture, conservation and sustainable aquatic ecosystems

2. Navigation/transport, commerce, ports

3. Coastal and maritime tourism, climate change, resilience, environment, infrastructure

4. Sustainable energy and mineral resources and innovative industries

5. Policies, institutional governance, employment, job creation, poverty eradication and innovative financing.

6. Maritime safety, security and enforcement For each of them, an overall presentation of the context precedes the institutional arrangements required at different scales and between the main stakeholders, as well as a summary table presenting the goals, key objectives and actions. A set of detailed tables identifying key actions, expected results, deadlines, stakeholders and means of verification are presented in the last section of the document. For each objective, specific progress indicators will be provided. The different institutional arrangements to be put in place are provided by the competent working groups for each of the thematic areas during the national consultative workshop. They also contribute to the identification of key activities to be carried out.

3. Overview This section will provide an overview of the context, specific objectives and institutional arrangements to be put in place for each of the 6 thematic areas. Thematic area 5 (Police, institutions and governance, employment, job creation and poverty eradication, innovative financing) is a cross-cutting area. The governance dimension, called Blue Governance, further constitutes an overarching thematic area. Thematic area 1: Fisheries, aquaculture, mariculture, conservation and sustainable aquatic ecosystems 3 Context and specific objectives Fisheries and aquaculture contribute immensely to blue growth in the DRC while creating jobs, wealth, food security, improved livelihoods, employment opportunities and human and national security. Thematic area 1 revealed the importance of sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, conservation and sustainable conservation of aquatic ecosystems. The fish value chain, which encompasses harvesting, processing, packaging and distribution activities, forms the value chain for product delivery and contributes to the livelihoods of people living in ocean coastal areas Atlantic, the Congo River as well as all the lakes of the DRC. Women play an essential role in the fisheries supply chain, particularly the marketing of fishery products; Women represent half of the total workforce in fisheries and aquaculture value chains and play crucial roles, but the share of them working in the informal sector and occupying the lowest positions paid, the most precarious and the least qualified is largely and unfairly disproportionate. In the aquaculture sector, they represent 28 percent of the primary sector workforce, 18 percent in the fishing sector, and around 50 percent in the pre- and post-harvest parts of the value chain (FAO , 2020m). A. Fishing The fishing sector includes maritime fishing, inland fishing and aquaculture. Marine production comes from a small coastline approximately 40 km long wedged between Angola and the Republic of Congo, with an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) which covers an estimated area of 1,150 km². Freshwater fishery resources populate the country's numerous lakes, marshes and floodplains fed by the rich hydrographic system of the Congo Basin. Aquaculture is mainly based on family subsistence fish farming in which the cultivation of Tilapias and catfish is predominant despite the potential for breeding other species. The Democratic Republic of Congo has significant fishing potential, estimated at more than 707,000 tonnes of annual production. A potential linked mainly to its vast hydrographic network and its relief favorable to the development of fish farming. The development of fishing is therefore a priority to combat food insecurity, as fish can easily supplement the animal protein needs of the poorest populations. Current annual production, essentially artisanal and continental, is around 240,000 tonnes, or around 30% of the potential. Due to the short length of the coast, catches of marine origin are modest and estimated at around 2% of total production since the 1980s, with only 6000 tonnes. 4 This total production corresponds to an average annual consumption of 5.5kg per inhabitant. All of this production comes from artisanal fishing using canoes and beach seines. According to the report's sources, fish production in the DRC is in decline. The current overall contribution of aquaculture to the total volume of fish consumed is marginal1. Demand is increasingly satisfied (although it is undoubtedly not complete on all markets) by large quantities of fish imported from China, East Africa, Namibia, 'Europe,... Figure 1: Fishing in Wagenia Falls on the Congo River, Tshopo Province Table n°1: Potential of lakes in DR Congo No. Lakes Geomorphological data - Area: + 820 km², - Altitude: 0 m (at sea level)

1. Atlantic coast - Length: 40 km 5 - Potential: 6,000 tonnes per year, but current production is estimated at 3,800 tonnes - The catches are mainly composed of the following species: Gulidochromis, white shark, sole, perch, conger eels, captain, barracuda - Total area: 32,900 km² - Congolese Part: 14,800 km² (45%); Tanzania: 13,500 km² (41%); Burundi: 2,600 km² (8%); Zambia: 2000 km² (6%) - Altitude: 773 m - Maximum depth: 1,436 m; minimum: 700 m - Average depth: 570 m - Length: 680 km

2. Lake Tanganyika - Width: 7 km - PH: 7.6 at swamp level and reaches 9.5 in full water - Total potential: 300,000 to 1,000,000 tonnes/year - Temperature: 25°c - Oxygenation limit: North basin: 80 m, South basin: 150 m - Catches consist mainly of pelagic species including 75% Stolothrissa tanganicae, 10% Limnothrissa miodon and 15% Lates luciolates and other species. - Area: 2,700 km², including 1,700 km² (63%) for DR Congo - Altitude: 1,463 m Temperature: 24.5°C, 25.5°C

3. Lake Kivu - PH: varies between 6.5-9.3 - Length: 89 km - Width: 48 km 6 - Average depth: 285 m, maximum; 485 m - Annual production potential: 7,000 to 19,000 tonnes/year for the Congolese part - Species: Bariliusubangensis, Barbus, clarias, Tilapia and Hyplochromis, Stolotrissatanganycae. No. Lakes Geomorphological data - Area: 1,940 km², including 1,630 km² of DR Congo (84%), Uganda: 310 km² (16%) - Altitude: 916 m - Length: 90 km - Average width: 40 km - Potential: 13,000 tonnes to 16,000 tonnes/year

4. Lake Edward - Average depth: 30 m, maximum: 117 m - Species: The fish fauna is essentially composed of Tilapia (60%), Protopterus (10%), Bagrus (10%), Clarias (10%), Barbus (5%), Miscellaneous (5%). The number of fishermen is currently estimated at 1,600, while the constraint in this body of water is represented by the shortage of fishing equipment and the lack of processing and conservation infrastructure; as well as appropriate means of transport. - Area: 5,270 km², including 2,420 km² (40%) for the DR Congo and 2,850 km² (54%) for the Ugandan part - Altitude: 618 m - Length: 160 km - Width: 35 km

5. Lake Albert - PH: varies between 8.5 to 9.3 - Average depth: 25 m, maximum: 56 m - Surface temperature, water temperatures can reach 30°C while that of the bottom is equivalent to 22.5°C 7 - The potential of the lake is estimated at 30,000 tonnes/year for the part of DR Congo - The catches are mainly composed of the following species: idrocyon, baremos, lates, tilapia and bagrus. - Area: 4,650 km² including 1,950 km², or (42%) for DR Congo - Potential: 12,000 tonnes/year

6. Lake Moero - Altitude: 930 m - Exploited species: Tilapia macrochir (80%), Clarias, Synodontis, Barbus altivelis and Mormyridae. - Area: 6,256 km² - Altitude: 574 m - Length: 250 km Kamalondo's 7. Depression - The exploitable potential of this depression is estimated at 30,000 tonnes per year, but current production is estimated at 17,000 tonnes/year - The catches are mainly composed of the following species: Idrocyon, baremos, Lates, Tilapia, Protopterus and Bagrus. Table n°2: Main fish-bearing reaches No. PROVINCES BIEFS FISHING AREAS Lake Maï-Ndombe Inongo, Kolobeke, Mushie

1. Ex. Bandundu Congo River Bolobo-Kwamuth Lake Tumba Bikoro

2. Ex. Ecuador Congo River Bumba-Lukolele Luapula Moero Complex Kilwa, Pweto, Kasenga Lake Tshangalele Mwandingusha

3. Ex. Katanga Lake Nzilo Seke Lake Tanganyika Moliro, Moba, Kalemie Congo River Kongolo, Kabalo, Bukama Lake Albert Kasenyi, Tsomia, Mahagi-port

4. Ex. Eastern Province Congo River Kisangani-Isangi Lake Tanganyika Baraka, Uvira

5. South Kivu Kalehe, Kazima, Nzula, Minova, Lake Kivu Katana 8

6. North Kivu Lake Edward Kyavinyonge, Vitshumbi

7. Maniema Congo River Kindu Bambane, Mapangu, Lodi, Eila,

8. Ex. Western Kasai Western Kasai reach Port Ilumbe, Butala, Bokila, Kasaï Mwala, Kambuyi, Kambulu, Ilebo

9. Ex. Kasaï Oriental Kasai Oriental reach Lubilanji, Lomami, Tshiofa Congo River Mpioka-Luozi, Boma-Estuaire

10. Ex. Bas-Congo Atlantic Ocean Banana, Moanda, N'siamfumu

11. Ex. Kinshasa Congo River Pool Malebo Source: General information on the main fishing zones Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock, Fisheries Directorate, Kinshasa, September 2002. Institutional arrangements to be put in place The institutional arrangements needed to make this five-year implementation plan (2025-2030) effective and efficient for the sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sector could include the following non-prescriptive actions/elements • The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock (hereinafter referred to as the Supervisory Authority) in charge of fishing and aquaculture in the DRC serves as an engine of growth and provides new impetus to unlock the full potential of the sector. It is responsible for overseeing the establishment of effective coordination mechanisms through broad consultative processes with other stakeholders and making relevant recommendations to lead the sector; Note: Recommendations aimed at boosting the DRCongolese fishing and aquaculture sector should be streamlined to adapt to the DRCongolese perspective based on the particularities of the fishing and aquaculture sector in Congo by the relevant working group . Recommendations: The opportunities for aquaculture development in the DRC are promising. To hope to improve production, long-term investment at all levels seems essential. These include trade dedicated to the production of animal feed, support services (public and private) particularly in terms of research and development, education and training, but also extension services. Any commercial development in the aquaculture sector in the Kivus and the East should focus on the viability of large-scale cage or pond farming through inputs of impeccable 9 quality often originating or passing through the 'East Africa. The development of market systems in the Kinshasa region should focus on improving the cold chain and market access. Collaboration between producers is desirable. This would make it possible to import good quality food and obtain better yields to be competitive on the fish market. The capacity for fish farming in Tanganyika seems very low. This would require pre-commercial investments (i.e. investments that are difficult to obtain if they come only from the private sector). The challenges common to the entire country indicate several key areas of intervention:

1. Diet is the main priority. Substandard food currently poses a major obstacle to the growth of the sector. Improving local animal feed production capacity seems possible in the long term. Progress and economies of scale have been made in Kinshasa, but under current conditions, securing the supply of good quality imported food offers much better prospects.

2. Supporting group purchasing of food can be a way to secure this supply. Supply chains vary from one region to another. However, all regions seem to benefit from the association of organized cooperatives and animal feed importers. Such a step would involve coordination costs, but should be commercially feasible.

3. Extension services and knowledge transfer are necessary to help different stakeholders who lack guidance and support. They are forced to find adequate and costly solutions to reduce the risks linked to their aquaculture activities. Among the various areas for improvement, it would be necessary to encourage fish farmers to work in groups and increase the number of reference fish farmers in certain regions in order to teach their profession to others.

4. The availability of quality fingerlings is an ongoing problem. While new hatcheries are being developed in South Kivu and Kinshasa, breaking even will take some time and their geographic reach into rural areas and other regions appears very limited. Furthermore, for the impact to be real, factories and distribution will have to be managed rigorously. In the medium and long term, these costs will have to be borne by farmers for commercial purposes, this would in particular make it possible to integrate the supply of good quality fry into the commercial model.

5. In order to fully realize the benefits of increased supply of fingerlings, extension services will need to be strengthened. A first step would be to build the capacity of SENAQUA staff who, with their limited technical knowledge, are themselves poorly equipped and do not have sufficient resources to support smallholders and the formal industry as it develops.

6. Actions for aquaculture should support industries that will strengthen animal feed value chains (e.g. chicken feed), linking with other agricultural capacity programs (e.g. chicken feed) (i.e. nearby industries where targeted investments will result in mutual benefits, increasing the capacity of complementary sectors and industries beyond what would be achievable by each individually). Integration with other agro-based industries would build capacity in value-added activities as well as primary production. 10 • A directorate or unit is created to oversee planning, coordination, implementation, monitoring and evaluations; • Within the Directorate/Unit, set up a global steering committee made up of members coming, among others, from ministries/divisions/agencies (presidency of the republic) concerned by the sector (multi-sectoral approach/land planning, including environment, maritime transport, tourism, energy, agriculture, trade), representatives of the commercial fishing industry, representatives of artisanal fishing, fishing cooperatives/associations, academics and NGOs . The steering committee may create work teams and/and co-opt additional expert members, as needed. • The main responsibility of the steering committee will be to domesticate the plan and manage its implementation; • The Authority appoints/delegates a senior official to provide strategic leadership to the Steering Committee and serve as the main liaison/link with the National Blue Economy Coordination Unit and point of contact with AU-IBAR, and other organizations regions concerned. The Authority integrates the plan into general government development policies to ensure policy coherence and unlock national public resources to help boost implementation; • The Authority fulfills its sectoral obligations at the national, state and local levels, including the implementation of this plan, supported by AU-IBAR and its partners; • The Authority and AU-IBAR carry out periodic monitoring and evaluation (M&E). The table below presents the thematic area goals for each goal, objective and target, planned actions, expected results, means of verification, timeline and coordination and partnership. 11 Thematic area 1: Fisheries, aquaculture, mariculture, conservation and sustainable aquatic ecosystems Aim Goal 1 Goal 2 Goal 3 Optimize the Realize the full potential Ensuring sustainability conservation and of wealth creation for social, economic, sustainable use of fishing and aquaculture environmental and fisheries resources while sector to optimally fair results minimizing conflicts contribute to blue growth and human rights with other blue economy while preserving sub-themes natural capital and blue investment Goals 1.1 Establish institutional 2.1 Develop sustainable 3.1 Promote sustainable coordination mechanisms fishing and aquaculture livelihoods for coastal to harmonize fishing and aquaculture activities with production to improve communities and other blue economy the livelihoods, food and indigenous peoples themes nutritional security of Congolese people who depend on fish as a source of protein 1.2 Formulate an 2.2 Improve access to 3.2 Improve fisheries ecosystem management markets and governance for sustainable approach by area infrastructure fishing in the Congo (marine protected areas maritime zone and protect and aquatic space investments in the fishing planning) for effective sector governance of the DRC's aquatic natural capital and ecosystem services 1.3. Encourage the 2.3. Promote capacity 3.3 Create safe and secure promotion of nature- building of stakeholders working conditions based solutions for the in the fisheries and sustainable conservation aquaculture sector of aquatic biodiversity 1.4. Establish regional 2.4. Promote small and 3.4 Develop a maritime cooperation on blue medium-sized businesses protection plan to protect economy themes and associations working the Congolese coasts and its waterways. 12 in the fishing and aquaculture sector 2.5. Promote the 3.5. Rehabilitate and development of inclusive secure threatened fishing blue value chains areas, prevent pollution integrating and degradation of aquatic sustainable fishing aquaculture, ornamental environments, fight against fishing and ecotourism invasive species: Thematic area 2: Maritime transport, trade, ports, maritime safety, security and law enforcement Context and specific objectives The shipping industry, as a hub of the blue economy, contributes to and supports the economies of coastal and landlocked countries, connecting industrial centers and markets within and across national borders. It is one of the global innovative industries with the capacity to generate wealth and jobs and is an important driver for sustainable economic growth and positive developments. Maritime trade is currently dominated by conglomerates which unilaterally set freight rates and thus organize the maritime transport market in their own way. However, positive developments have taken place as, since 2017, the global economy and maritime trade have rebounded from the historic lows of 2016, almost a decade after the economic and financial crisis of 2008-2009. Key economic and shipping indicators have improved, reflecting growth in investment, manufacturing and merchandise trade in Africa. With a length of 16,238 km, this network includes: - The Banana-Matadi maritime reach (150 km); 13 - The middle reach of the Congo River (Kinshasa-Kisangani), the Kasaï River and their tributaries (13,458 km); And - The upper reach of Lualaba and the lakes (2,630 km). On this network we find: - 40 developed river and lake ports including Kinshasa, Ilebo, Kalemie, Kisangani, Mbandaka, Ubundu and Kindu; - 3 seaports: Matadi, Boma and Banana; - 24 river routes which constitute the main means of replacing roads and railways; - The lake network of Lake Kivu, 106 kilometers long which connects Bukavu to Goma; that of Lake Tanganyika, 1,425 kilometers long, which connects the DRC to Zambia, Tanzania and Burundi; 11- The river network from Kindu to Ubundu (310 kilometers) and from Kongolo to Malemba- Nkulu (390 kilometers). River transport therefore occupies an important place on the Congo River and its tributaries, especially in the northwest of the country. However, navigability on this natural network is hampered by the absence of dredging and insufficient investment in infrastructure, signaling and/or marking. 14 ......, RepU.iica Oemocrtitfca del Congo ~~ ·~· \__ b.. Angolo Figure: Map of river ports in the DRC 2.4. The DRC has a hydrographic network of more than 15,000 km of river and lake routes, which can be considered the backbone of communication routes for its socio-economic development. River and lake navigation was carried out in satisfactory conditions until the 1980s and history has shown that this mode of transport can be efficient and safe. However, due to lack of funding and resources given the situation of instability that the DRC has experienced in recent years, transport by water has become extremely slow and dangerous. Port infrastructure and navigation aids are in an advanced state of disrepair in some places. As there are international and continental legal instruments (the UNCTAD Code of Conduct for Maritime Conferences of 1974, the DRCongolese law on merchant shipping, AIMS 2050, Agenda 2063,the revised African Maritime Transport Charter, the 2016 Lomé Charter on Safety and Security), the approach consists of building on current dynamics, both at the regional level, in close collaboration with AU Member States , and at the international level to create synergies and build capacities through cooperation with various institutions and development partners. 15 The Congolese government has secured site space in Mombasa and Dar es Salaam to set up offices for its new shipping company, Lignes Maritimes Congolaises, which began operations in June 2022 to coordinate imports and exports of their countries where imports are now cheaper and easier, with customs tariffs about to be reduced. This will adequately resolve the issue of storage, traceability and security of its products, as the DRC expects an increase in its activities after joining the EAC in April 2022. The DRC comes to the bloc with a huge market of 90 million people and the potential to contribute to an expanded market and investment opportunities to boost the EAC common market. As a member of the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries (CEPGL) and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), the DRC has already concluded bilateral and multilateral cooperation agreements with EAC partner states in various areas, including customs, infrastructure and productive and social sectors. The new DRC shipping line will also use Tanzanian ports, which could provide an additional incentive for Dodoma's latest program to develop its inland ports including Lake Tanganyika ports aimed at speeding up the movement of goods and people in the Great Lakes region, mainly towards DR Congo. The current institutional situation which constitutes a handicap for maritime transport and the development of inter-state trade lies mainly in the disinterest of state authorities who give more importance to other sectors, hence the following consequences: • International conventions and related agreements, even if ratified, are not implemented, • There is little political will to pay particular attention to the management of maritime traffic rights recognized by UNCTAD, which prevents DRC/African shipping companies from being competitive with those from other continents. This situation is aggravated by a lack of synergy between the national administrations responsible for managing the different modes of transport. In this regard, for the governance of the sector and the coordination of activities, it is necessary to make the following recommendations adapted to the DRCongolese perspective: Recommendations: • Promote the full implementation of the following DRCongolese maritime legislation: The law on merchant shipping, the law on coastal and inland navigation (law on cabotage), the 16 DRCongolese law on maritime administration and security, the law on maritime the DRC Port Authority, the National Inland Waters Law of 2004 and other laws. • Strengthen the coordination bodies of the blue economy in Congo. It is also necessary to strengthen the institutional support of the Congolese State for organizations in the maritime sector. • Ratify international conventions and various regional and sub-regional agreements relating to maritime transport and international trade, in particular those relating to the free movement of people and goods. It is also necessary to establish good governance, including at the port level. • . The proper application of these international conventions must: • Promote navigation safety and customs clearance of goods in ports • Improve trade facilitation and promote the orderly expansion of trade and transport; harmonize standards • Remove all barriers to trade and promote the unification of trade documents • Improving the ease of doing business in DRC ports, by making ports more user-friendly • Promote transport intermodality and the connection of ports with the hinterland, thereby optimizing costs and reducing port congestion • Fully implement national cabotage transport, which could help promote coastal trade and build local capacity. • facilitate integrated transportation; set up databases across the entire trade and transport chain. Organize greater synergy and consultation between national structures responsible for managing maritime transport for greater consistency and efficiency in actions. This synergy will make it possible to modernize DRC ports and create new ports capable of receiving the latest generation of ships, to strengthen and modernize universities, schools, institutes and specialized academies for the training of stakeholders, and to control maritime freight. Thematic area 2: Shipping/transport, trade, ports, maritime safety, security and law enforcement 17 Goals Goal 1 Goal 2 Transport goods from Develop maritime transport African countries for import and export to reasonable prices Goals 1.1 Ensure effective 2.1 Develop a robust cabotage regime to develop local governance of the tonnage and human development capacity. DRCongo maritime domain to improve the safety and security of ships 1.2 Develop access to 2.2 Change the international carriage contract of our ports and improve local cargo (crude oil) from free on board (FOB) to intermodal transport to cost and freight insurance (CIF) connect ports to other hinterlands 1.3 Modernize and 2.3 Dredging of ports to ensure accessibility to vessels digitalize DRC ports to with greater draft. accommodate larger vessels and for effective and efficient port operations 1.4 Improve the use of 2.4 Improve port service indicators (turnaround time, Congolese inland waiting time, etc.) and monitoring of arbitrary loads, waterways and reduce handling costs to improve port choice and the pressure on highways attractiveness of DR Congo ports from trucks carrying containers 1.5 Encourage the 2.5 Develop and implement an integrated national ratification of maritime maritime security framework for effective interdiction conventions and of maritime crimes in the Congo maritime zone navigation safety codes 18 1.6 Promote cooperation 2.6 and collaboration of the DRCongolese navies with regional navies. 1.7 2.7 Thematic area 3:Coastal and maritime tourism, climate change, resilience, environment, infrastructure in the context of the Congolese blue economy Goals Objective 1 Objective 2 Objective 3 Objective 4 Activities and Promote an Supporting the Resilient coastal integrated development of Infrastructure, developments approach and resilient Blue carbon and and the maritime Coastal and infrastructure in other ecosystem sector comply sustainable the coastal marine Services all environmental Marine tourism sector protection Tourism sector and the laws, directives and regulations Goals 1.1 Develop 2.1 Promote the 3.1 Develop 4.1Expand integrated rich cultural integrated strategies strategies for heritage, pristine strategies for for resilient sustainable sustainable Infrastructure beaches and environmental tourism management natural sites of the DRC to attract coastal tourism 19 1.2 Develop 2.2 Develop 3.2 Develop 4.2 Establish capacity to capacities to Integrated tourism strategic links climate resilience strengthen Infrastructure including blue economy establishments strategies Infrastructure and communities 1.3 Designate 2.3 Harmonize 3.3 Create safe and 4.3 Promote the areas harboring collaboration on secure working integration of blue endemic species cross-border conditions carbon and as marine issues ecosystem services Protected areas to make them areas into CC policies prohibited from and coastal and industrial or aquatic policies other harmful human activities 1.4 Promote local 2.4 Improve 3.4 Deploy early communities partnership warning systems livelihood between for preparedness public and private and responses to sector adverse weather conditions 1.5 Develop a 2.5 Promote 3.5. Building risk management capacity building resilient framework and and technology infrastructure that promote the transfer will withstand the integration of ratified effects of climate conventions and change treaties into national legislation. legislations at all levels of government 1.6 Develop 2.6 Improve inter 3.6. Promote an information and intra ideal security database and coordination architecture for dissemination mechanism security issues that mechanism allows appropriation by the DRCongos 20 Thematic area 4:Sustainable mineral resources and energy and innovative industries in the context of the Congolese blue economy Goals Goal 1 Goal2 Goal3 Goal 4 Open the Create a Ensure that Exploit sustainable regulatory developments the potential energy potential environment in the sector of innovation conducive to the comply with all Industries development and environmental by R&D application of protection and sustainable blue health laws, energy guidelines and regulations Goals 1.1 Increase 2.1 Reform 3.1 Require regular 4.1Expand blue energy unsustainable environmental policy penetration into financial assessments and framework for the DRCongo structure and risk management accelerate the energy mix create favorable plans for all transfer and energy financing minefields as application of instruments advance planning blue economy tools as well as technologies regular audits throughout the lifespan of particular fields; prosperity 1.2 Contribute 2.2 Develop 3.2 Prohibit 4.2 Strengthen by increasing sustainable blue prospecting and institutional, reliability, energy mining of solid infrastructural cleanliness, master plan and minerals in fragile and human affordable and policy ecosystems capacity modern energy derivatives including coastal development waters, forests and other areas of high heritage value 1.3 Evaluate 2.3 Develop 3.3 Capacity 4.3 Promote the availability evaluation building and The app enough guidelines technology of innovation infrastructure at environmental transfer Industries the level impact (a) national (b) for assessment regional, c) and (EIA) continental 21 1.4 Power the 2.4 Develop 3.4 Strengthen 4.4 Create an blue economy guidelines for existing innovative environmental, collaboration with industrial database security agencies social and and supporting (Ministerial governance risk Monitoring tools assessment Working Group) (ESIA) 1.5 2.5Promote R&D 3.5. Regulate all and technology levels of mining, transfer including those on an artisanal scale 1.6 2.6 3.6Create a direct budget for capacity building, purchase of operational equipment and vehicles Thematic area 5: Policies, institutions and governance, employment, job creation and poverty eradication, innovative financial industries in the context of the Congolese blue economy Goals Goal1 Goal 2 Goal3 Strengthen the Promote Congo will assume Establishments for The Congolese blue leadership in financing the Political environment economy to drive development of the blue and governance for Economy economy coordinate the DRC Transformations Blue economy Goals 1.1. Promote consistency 2.1. To integrate 3.1. Develop innovative in political practice integrated strategies and sustainable solutions and harmonization for sustainable financing tools and regulatory development and catalysts to implement blue executives within An inclusive blue economy strategies at and in all sectors economy focused on national, local and and levels improving the value international levels chain 22 1.2. Capacitate them 2.2. General public 3.2. Initiate tax reform and establishments in relevant mechanism other incentives to improve promote cross-sector and a framework for the financial system and collaboration, operationalize the improve PPP and financing implementation and AfCFTA (State and responsibility in and other regional and non-state). at the height of the continental executives Congo in relation to blue economy objectives 1.3. Improve 2.3.Strengthen the 3. Promote creation analytical and capacities of the blue of a blue DRCongolese information assistance economy and commercial alliance for system at all levels accelerate scientific health and for an informed decision research, technology and sustainable use production and reporting innovation Aquatic ecosystems of Congo 1.4 2.4. Develop a national 3.4 Promote sustainable roadmap for the blue and innovative ocean economy for Congo. financing for the development of the blue economy Thematic areas in detail For each thematic area, the strategic goals are divided into specific objectives, themselves characterized by several targets. Detailed breakdowns of targets, actions, expected results and means of verification for each objective will be contained in the tables below. These objectives are neither exhaustive nor static and can be reassessed during the mid-term review of the implementation plan. Thematic area 1:Fisheries, aquaculture, mariculture, conservation and sustainable aquatic ecosystems Table 1.0: Thematic area 1, objective 1.1 of goal 1 Objective 1:Improve the conservation and sustainable use of fisheries and aquaculture resources while minimizing conflicts with other blue economy sub-themes 23 Objective 1.1 Establish institutional coordination mechanisms to harmonize fishing and aquaculture activities with other blue economy themes in the different reservoirs (Atlantic coast, lakes and rivers) Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partners (P) Table 1.1: Thematic area 1, objective 1.2 of goal 1 Objective 1:Improve the conservation and sustainable use of fisheries and aquaculture resources while minimizing conflicts with other blue economy sub-themes Objective 1.2 Designate an ecosystem management approach by area (marine protected areas and marine spatial planning) for effective governance of the marine natural capital and ecosystem services of Congo Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 24 Table 1.2: Thematic area 1, objective 1.3 of goal 1 Objective 1:Improve the conservation and sustainable use of fisheries and aquaculture resources while minimizing conflicts with other blue economy sub-themes Objective 1.3 Promote nature-based solutions (mangrove restoration) for the sustainable conservation of marine biodiversity Targets Actions Expected means of time Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 25 Table 1.3: Thematic area 1, objective 2.1 of goal 2 Objective 2:Reaching the full wealth creation potential for the fisheries and aquaculture sector to optimally contribute to blue growth Objective 2.1 Develop sustainable fisheries and aquaculture to improve the livelihoods, food and nutritional security of DRCongolese who depend on fish as a source of protein Targets Actions Expected Means of Time Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 26 Table 1.4: Thematic area 1, objective 2.3 of goal 2 Objective 2:Reaching the full wealth creation potential for the fisheries and aquaculture sector to optimally contribute to blue growth Objective 2.3 Develop a fisheries development plan for the nation. Targets Actions Expected means of time Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 1.5: Thematic area 1, objective 2.5 of goal 2 Objective 2:Reaching the full wealth creation potential for the fisheries and aquaculture sector to optimally contribute to blue growth Objective 2.5 Promote an inclusive blue value chain integrating the fishing sector, sustainable aquaculture, ornamental fishing and tourism Targets Actions Expected Means of Time Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 27 Table 1.6: Thematic area 1, objective 3.1 of goal 3 Objective 3:Ensure sustainable social, economic, environmental and equitable outcomes and human rights while preserving natural capital and blue investment. Objective 3.1 Promote sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities and indigenous peoples 28 Targets Actions Expected Means of Time Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 1.7: Thematic area 1, objective 3.2 of goal 3 Objective 3:Ensure sustainable social, economic, environmental and equitable outcomes and human rights while preserving natural capital and blue investment. 29 Objective 3.2 Improve fisheries governance for sustainable fishing in the maritime, river and lake areas of Congo and protect investments in the fishing sector Targets Actions Expected Means of Time Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 1.8: Thematic area 1, objective 3.3 of goal 3 30 Objective 3:Ensure sustainable social, economic, environmental and equitable outcomes and human rights while preserving natural capital and blue investment. Objective 3.3 Create safe and secure working conditions Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 1.9: Thematic area 1, objective 3.3 of goal 3 31 Objective 3:Ensure sustainable social, economic, environmental and equitable outcomes and human rights while preserving natural capital and blue investment. Objective 3.3 Create safe and secure working conditions Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 1.10: Thematic area 1, objective 3.4 of goal 3 32 Objective 3:Ensure sustainable social, economic, environmental and equitable outcomes and human rights while preserving natural capital and blue investment. Objective 3.4 Develop a water protection plan to protect our coasts and waterways. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Thematic area 2: Shipping/transport, trade, ports, maritime safety, security and law enforcement 33 Table 2.0: Thematic area 2, objective 1.1 of goal 1 Objective 1 Transport local goods to ports in other African countries and across the world for import and export at reasonable rates Objective1.1 Ensure effective governance of the DRCongolese maritime domain to improve the safety and security of ships Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 2.1: Thematic area 2, objective 1.2 of goal 1 34 Objective 1 Transport local goods to ports in other African countries and across the world for import and export at reasonable rates Objective1.2 Develop access to ports and improve intermodal transport to connect ports to other hinterlands Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 35 Table 2.0: Thematic area 2, objective 1.3 of goal 1 Objective 1 Transport local goods to ports in other African countries and across the world for import and export at reasonable rates Objective1.3 Modernize and digitalize DRC ports to accommodate larger vessels and for effective and efficient port operations Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 2.2: Thematic area 2, objective 1.4 of goal 1 36 Objective 1 Transport local goods to ports in other African countries and across the world for import and export at reasonable rates Objective1.4 Improve the use of DRC inland waterways and reduce pressure on highways from trucks transporting containers Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 37 Table 2.3: Thematic area 2, objective 1.5 of goal 1 Objective 1 Transport local goods to ports in other African countries and across the world for import and export at reasonable rates Objective1.5 Encourage the ratification of maritime conventions and navigation safety codes Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 2.4: Thematic area 2, objective 1.6 of goal 1 38 Objective 1 Transport local goods to ports in other African countries and across the world for import and export at reasonable rates Objective1.6 Promote cooperation and collaboration of DRCongolese navies with regional navies Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 2.5: Thematic area 2, objective 2.1 of goal 2 39 Objective 2 Expand interstate commerce Objective2.1 Develop a robust cabotage regime to develop local tonnage and human development capacity. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 40 Table 2.8: Thematic area 2, objective 2.4 of goal 2 Objective 2 Expand interstate commerce Objective2.4 Improve port service indicators (turnaround time, waiting time, etc.) and monitor arbitrary fees, handling costs to improve port choice, attractiveness and competitiveness of DR Congo ports Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 41 Table 2.9: Thematic area 2, objective 2.5 of goal 2 Objective 2 Expand interstate commerce Objective2.5 Develop and implement an integrated national maritime security framework for effective interdiction of maritime crimes in the Congo maritime zone Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 42 Thematic area 3:Coastal and maritime tourism, climate change, resilience, environment, infrastructure in the context of the Congolese blue economy Table 3.0: Thematic area 3, objective 1.1 of goal 1 Objective 1 Activities and developments in the coastal and marine sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective1.1 Develop integrated strategies for sustainable environmental management Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 43 Table 3.1: Thematic area 3, objective 1.2 of goal 1 Objective 1 Activities and developments in the coastal and marine sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective1.2 Build the capacity of climate-resilient economies and communities Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 44 Table 3.2: Thematic area 3, objective 1.3 of goal 1 Objective 1 Activities and developments in the coastal and marine sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective1.3 Designate areas harboring endemic species as marine protected areas to make them areas prohibited from industrial or other harmful human activities Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 45 Table 3.3: Thematic area 3, objective 1.4 of goal 1 Objective 1 Activities and developments in the coastal and marine sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective1.4 Improve the livelihoods of local communities 46 Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.4: Thematic area 3, objective 1.5 of goal 1 Objective 1 Activities and developments in the coastal and marine sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. 47 Objective1.5 Develop a risk management framework and promote the integration of conventions and treaties ratified into national legislation by all levels of government Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.5: Thematic area 3, objective 1.6 of goal 1 48 Objective 1 Activities and developments in the coastal and marine sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective1.6 Develop an information database and dissemination mechanism Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.6: Thematic area 3, objective 2.1 of goal 2 49 Objective 2 Promote integrated and sustainable coastal and marine tourism Objective2.1 Promote the rich cultural heritage, beaches and natural sites of the DRC to attract coastal, lake and river tourism Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.7: Thematic area 3, objective 2.2 of goal 2 50 Objective 2 Promote integrated and sustainable coastal and marine tourism Objective2.2 Develop capacities to strengthen regional institutions Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.8: Thematic area 3, objective 2.3 of goal 2 51 Objective 2 Promote integrated and sustainable coastal and marine tourism Objective2.3 Harmonize collaboration on cross-border issues Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 52 Table 3.9: Thematic area 3, objective 2.4 of goal 2 Objective 2 Promote integrated and sustainable coastal, lake, river and marine tourism Objective2.4 Strengthen the partnership between the public and private sectors Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.10: Thematic area 3, objective 2.5 of goal 2 53 Objective 2 Promote integrated and sustainable coastal and marine tourism Objective2.5 Promote Research and Development and technology transfer Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.11: Thematic area 3, objective 2.6 of goal 2 54 Objective 2 Promote integrated and sustainable coastal and marine tourism Objective2.6 Improve the inter and intra coordination mechanism Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.12: Thematic area 3, objective 3.1 of goal 3 55 Objective 3 Support the development of resilient infrastructure in the coastal maritime tourism sector Objective3.1 Develop integrated strategies for sustainable tourism Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 56 Table 3.13: Thematic area 3, objective 3.2 of goal 3 Objective 3 Support the development of resilient infrastructure in the coastal maritime tourism sector Objective3.2 Develop integrated tourism infrastructure strategies Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.14: Thematic area 3, objective 3.3 of goal 3 57 Objective 3 Support the development of resilient infrastructure in the coastal maritime tourism sector Objective3.3 Create safe and secure working conditions Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.15: Thematic area 3, objective 3.4 of goal 3 58 Objective 3 Support the development of resilient infrastructure in the coastal maritime tourism sector Objective3.4 Deploy early warning systems for preparedness and responses to adverse weather conditions Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.16: Thematic area 3, objective 3.5 of goal 3 59 Objective 3 Support the development of resilient infrastructure in the coastal maritime tourism sector Objective 3.5. Building resilient infrastructure that will withstand the effects of climate change Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.17: Thematic area 3, objective 3.6 of goal 3 60 Objective 3 Support the development of resilient infrastructure in the coastal maritime tourism sector Objective 3.6. Promote an ideal security architecture for security issues that allows appropriation by the DRCongolese Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 3.18: Thematic area 3, objective 4.2 of goal 4 61 Goal 4 Resilient infrastructure, blue carbon and other ecosystem services Objective 4.2 Promote the integration of blue carbon and ecosystem services into CC, coastal and aquatic policies. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 62 Thematic area 4: Sustainable mineral and energy resources and innovative industries in the context of the Congolese blue economy Table 4.0: Thematic area 4, objective 1.1 of goal 1 Goal 1 Unlock the potential of sustainable blue energy Objective 1.1 Increase the penetration of blue energy into the DRCongolese energy mix. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 63 Table 4.1: Thematic area 4, objective 1.2 of goal 1 Goal 1 Unlock the potential of sustainable blue energy Objective 1.2 Contribute to increasing reliable, clean, affordable and modern energy. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 64 Table 4.2: Thematic area 4, objective 1.3 of goal 1 Goal 1 Unlock the potential of sustainable blue energy Objective 1.3 Assess the availability of sufficient infrastructure at the (a) national (b) and provincial government levels. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 65 Table 4.3: Thematic area 4, objective 2.1 of goal 1 Objective 2Create a regulatory environment conducive to the development and application of sustainable blue energy Objective 2.1 Reform the unsustainable financial structure and create favorable energy financing instruments. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 66 Table 4.4: Thematic area 4, objective 2.2 of goal 2 Objective 2Create a regulatory environment conducive to the development and application of sustainable blue energy Objective 2.2 Develop a blueprint for sustainable blue energy and derived policies. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 67 Table 4.5: Thematic area 4, objective 2.3 of goal 2 Objective 2Create a regulatory environment conducive to the development and application of sustainable blue energy Objective 2.3 Develop guidelines for assessing environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks for the exploration of marine natural capital in DRC waters. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 68 Table 4.6: Thematic area 4, objective 2.4 of goal 2 Objective 2Create a regulatory environment conducive to the development and application of sustainable blue energy Objective 2.4 Promote R&D and technology transfer to exploit ocean natural capital and ecosystem services. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 69 Table 4.7: Thematic area 4, objective 3.1 of goal 3 Objective 3Ensure that developments in the sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective 3.1 Require regular environmental assessments and risk management plans for all minefields as advance planning tools, as well as regular audits throughout the life of the particular fields. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 70 Table 4.8: Thematic area 4, objective 3.2 of goal 3 Objective 3Ensure that developments in the sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective 3.2 Prohibit the prospecting and mining of solid minerals in fragile ecosystems, including coastal waters, forests and other areas of high heritage value Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 71 Table 4.9: Thematic area 4, objective 3.3 of goal 3 Objective 3 Objective 3 Ensure that developments in the sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations Objective 3.3 Capacity building and technology transfer Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 72 Table 4.10: Thematic area 4, objective 3.4 of goal 3 Objective 3Ensure that developments in the sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective 3.4 Strengthen existing collaboration with security agencies (ministerial surveillance task force) Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 73 Table 4.11: Thematic area 4, objective 3.5 of goal 3 Objective 3Ensure that developments in the sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. Objective 3.5. Regulate all levels of mining, including those on an artisanal scale Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 4.12: Thematic area 4, objective 3.6 of goal 3 Objective 3Ensure that developments in the sector comply with all environmental protection and health laws, guidelines and regulations. 74 Objective 3.6 Create a direct budget for capacity building, purchase of operational equipment and vehicles Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 4.13: Thematic area 4, objective 4.1 of goal 4 Objective 4Harnessing the potential of innovative industries through R&D Objective 4.1 Develop a policy framework to accelerate the transfer and application of blue economy technologies 75 Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 4.14: Thematic area 4, objective 4.2 of goal 4 Objective 4Harnessing the potential of innovative industries through R&D 76 Objective 4.2 Strengthen the development of institutional, infrastructural and human capacities Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 4.15: Thematic area 4, objective 4.3 of goal 4 Objective 4Harnessing the potential of innovative industries through R&D 77 Objective 4.3 Promote the application of innovative industries Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 4.16: Thematic area 4, objective 4.4 of goal 4 78 Objective 4Harnessing the potential of innovative industries through R&D Objective 4.4 Create an innovative industrial database and supporting tools Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Thematic area 5:Policies, institutions and governance, employment, job creation and poverty eradication, innovative financial industries in the context of the DRC blue economy 79 Table 5.0: Thematic area 5, objective 1.1 of goal 1 Objective 1Strengthen institutions in politics, environment and governance in order to coordinate the Congolese blue economy. Objective 1.1. Promote coherence of policy practices and harmonization of regulatory frameworks within and across sectors and levels Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.1: Thematic area 5, objective 1.2 of goal 1 80 Objective 1Strengthen institutions in politics, environment and governance in order to coordinate the Congolese blue economy. Objective1.2. Institutions capable of fostering cross-sector collaboration, implementation and accountability in achieving the objectives of Congo's blue economy Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.2: Thematic area 5, objective 1.3 of goal 1 81 Objective 1Strengthen institutions in politics, environment and governance in order to coordinate the Congolese blue economy. Objective1.3. Improve analytical and information support system at all levels for informed decision-making and reporting Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.3: Thematic area 5, objective 2.1 of goal 2 82 Objective 2Promote the Congolese blue economy to drive economic transformations. Objective2.1. Integrate integrated strategies for a sustainable and inclusive blue economy with a focus on improving the value chain Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.4: Thematic area 5, objective 2.2 of goal 2 83 Objective 2Promote the Congolese blue economy to drive economic transformations. Objective2.2. Integrate a relevant mechanism and framework to operationalize the AfCFTA and other regional and continental frameworks Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 84 Table 5.5: Thematic area 5, objective 2.3 of goal 2 Objective 2Promote the Congolese DRC blue economy to drive economic transformations. Objective2.3. Building Blue Economy Capacity and Accelerating Science, Technology and Innovation Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.6: Thematic area 5, objective 2.4 of goal 2 85 Objective 2Promote the Congolese blue economy to drive economic transformations. Objective2.4. Develop a national roadmap for the blue economy for the DRCongo Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.7: Thematic area 5, objective 3.1 of goal 3 86 Objective 3 Ensure thatThe DRC takes the lead in financing the development of the blue economy Objective3.1. Develop innovative and sustainable financing tools (blue bonds) and catalysts to implement the blue economy strategy at provincial and national levels. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.8: Thematic area 5, objective 3.2 of goal 3 87 Objective 3 Ensure that the DRC assumes leadership in financing the development of the blue economy Objective3.2. Initiate tax reform and other incentives to improve the financial system, improve PPP and financing (state and non-state). Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.9: Thematic area 5, objective 3.3 of goal 3 88 Objective 3 Ensure that the DRC ia assumes leadership in financing the development of the blue economy Objective3.3 Promote the creation of a blue DRCongolese commercial alliance for the health and sustainable use of DRCongolese aquatic ecosystems Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) Table 5.10: Thematic area 5, objective 3.4 of goal 3 89 Objective 3 Ensure that the DRC assumes leadership in financing the development of the blue economy Objective3.4 Promote sustainable and innovative ocean, lake and river financing for the development of the blue economy Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 90 Thematic area 6: Application of maritime security and safety in the context of the Congolese blue economy Table 6.0: Thematic area 6, objective 1.1 of goal 1 Objective 1: Enable the blue economy Objective 1.1 Expansion and acquisition of high-tech naval fleets to strengthen interdiction of maritime security in sensitive areas Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 91 Table 6.1: Thematic area 6, objective 1.2 of goal 1 Objective 1: Enable the blue economy Objective 1.2 Develop an integrated maritime security strategy to stimulate the Congolese blue economy. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 92 Table 6.2: Thematic area 6, objective 1.3 of goal 1 Objective 1: Enable the blue economy Objective 1.3 Regular capacity building of DRCongolese maritime security institutions in terms of maritime security interdiction, navigation, shipbuilding and repair capabilities Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 93 Table 6.3: Thematic area 6, objective 1.3 of goal 1 Objective 1: Enable the blue economy Objective 1.4 Strengthen cooperation and collaboration between DRCongolese maritime security institutions Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 94 Table 6.4: Thematic area 6, objective 1.5 of goal 1 Objective 1: Enable the blue economy Objective 1.5 Protection of maritime assets and infrastructure, such as oil platforms, submarine cables and pipelines and other renewable energy Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 95 Table 6.5: Thematic area 6, objective 2.1 of goal 2 Objective 2 Improving the governance of maritime security in the DRCongolese maritime zone Objective 2.1 Ensure the sustainable exploitation of marine, lake and river natural capital to promote food security, energy security and economic prosperity. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 96 Table 6.6: Thematic area 6, objective 12.1 of goal 2 Objective 2 Improve the governance of maritime security in the DRCongolese maritime zone Objective 2.2 Improve defense and surveillance activities within sensitive areas and broader maritime zones, including territories occupied by non-governmental armed groups. Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 97 Table 6.8: Thematic area 6, objective 2.4 of goal 2 Objective 2 Improve the governance of maritime security in the DRCongolese maritime zone Objective 2.4 Creation of national coast guards to help secure DRC internal waters Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 98 Table 6.9: Thematic area 6, objective 2.5 of goal 2 Objective 2 Improve the governance of maritime security in the DRCongolese maritime zone Objective 2.5 Develop maritime artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, satellite surveillance and integration, and drone demobilization techniques to enhance security in sensitive areas Targets Actions Expected Means of Time lapse Coordinator (C) results verification and Partnership (P) 99