: Latest News

The newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs H.E Ali Hassan Joho, EGH, on Monday 19th August, 2024 made his first official visit to KMFRI since his appointment. The CS, who is a former Governor of Mombasa county was accompanied by his successor, H.E Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir and Principal Secretary of State Department of Fisheries and Blue Economy Madam Betsy Njagi, CBS.

The CS acknowledged KMFRI's efforts in harnessing the Blue Economy, urging the institute to do more to unlock the massive potential gains of aquaculture and mariculture.

"The Blue Economy is very broad. Mining, tourism and oil extraction are also components of the BE. Stock assessment is critical and investors need this data," said the CS.

The former Governor said the potential sitting on our waters is enormous and we must put in place plans to create more jobs for our youth, and generate higher revenue, adding that the benefits will reduce overdependence on the exchequer.

"Dependence on the exchequer compels the government to increase taxes," he said, pointing out that it places unnecessary burden on taxpayers.

The CS, Governor and PS also planted commemorative trees at KMFRI headquarters.

Earlier, the CS was warmly received by KMFRI's Ag Director General Dr Jacob Ochiewo and led to his office for a courtesy visit before addressing KMFRI's top managers at the Institute's Dolphin Hall. Dr Ochiewo delivered a presentation that showcased KMFRI's research milestones and the Institute's contribution to the Blue Economy sector.

The Governor welcomed the CS to Mombasa and wished him the best in his new role.

The PS commended KMFRI for her milestones in research and acknowledged the role of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in supporting the Blue Economy, saying there is need to develop a framework to aid implementation.

The CS and his delegation also toured KMFRI's herbarium, home to a collection of freshwater and marine fisheries specimens, which play a significant role in supporting and preserving scientific knowledge and biodiversity data.

: Latest News

THE SECOND AQUATIC RESOURCES & BLUE ECONOMY

CONFERENCE (ARBEC II) 2024

“Science-Driven Stewardship for a Sustainable Blue Economy”

17th – 21st, June, 2024, Kisumu, Kenya.

Join us at the 2nd Aquatic Resources and Blue Economy Conference (ARBEC II) in Kisumu, Kenya, from 17^th to 21st June 2024. This conference stands at the forefront of global discourse on sustainable aquatic practices, emphasizing "Science-Driven Stewardship for a Sustainable Blue Economy."

E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

To Secure participation, Registration must be completed no later than May 30, 2024

Click here to Register

Why Kisumu?

A HUB OF BLUE INNOVATION

The city has emerged as a regional hub for blue innovation, embodying the harmonious coexistence of urban development and environmental conservation. By choosing Kisumu as our conference venue, we acknowledge the region's commitment to sustainable practices and its pivotal role in the collective effort to balance economic growth with ecological responsibility.

Additional information on Kisumu can be found on the following website: https://magicalkenya.com/destinations/kisumu/

URGENCY OF OUR MISSION

As the global community faces unprecedented environmental challenges, the urgency of our mission becomes clear. ARBEC II is not just a conference; it is a collective commitment to address the critical issues affecting our oceans, lakes, and waterways. Climate change, overfishing, pollution, and habitat degradation demand innovative and science-driven solutions, and our gathering in Kisumu serves as a rallying point for those dedicated to effecting positive change.

Key Focus Areas

Interdisciplinary Research

⦁ Explore cutting-edge interdisciplinary research at the intersection of marine biology, oceanography, environmental science, and economics.

⦁ Foster collaboration between scientists, academics, and industry experts to address complex challenges facing aquatic ecosystems and the blue economy.

Capacity Building

⦁ Highlight initiatives for capacity building, education, and training programs to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable practices.

Policy and Governance

⦁ Address the development and implementation of science-informed policies and governance frameworks that promote responsible resource utilization and conservation.

⦁ Discuss international collaborations and agreements that support the sustainable management of shared aquatic resources.

Community Engagement and Inclusivity

⦁ Emphasize the importance of involving local communities in the stewardship of aquatic resources, ensuring their participation in decision-making processes.

⦁ Explore inclusive and community-driven approaches to sustainable blue economy initiatives.

Technology and Innovation

⦁ Showcase innovative technologies and solutions that leverage scientific advancements for sustainable resource management, fisheries, aquaculture, and maritime activities.

⦁ Discuss the role of data analytics, remote sensing, and emerging technologies in enhancing our understanding of aquatic environments.

Climate Change and Cross Cutting Issues

⦁ Focus on the impacts of climate change on aquatic ecosystems and the blue economy, examining cross-cutting issues that require integrated solutions.

⦁ Explore strategies to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change on marine environments and associated communities.

Conference Format

Plenary Sessions
Parallel Tracks and Specialized Sessions
Panel Discussions
Interactive Workshops/Side events
Poster Sessions and Exhibitions
Networking Events
Field Excursions
Closing Ceremony
Virtual Participation

Key Dates

Abstract Submission Deadline: 29^thFebruary 2024
Notification of Acceptance: 31^stMarch 2024
Conference Dates: 17^th-20^th June 2024

Conference Themes

Marine Biology and Ecology
Oceanography and Climate Change
Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture
Blue Economy Policies and Governance
Technology and Innovation in the Blue Economy
Community Engagement and Inclusivity

Abstract Submission Guidelines

How to Submit an Abstract

Registration Fees

We welcome abstracts that align with the conference theme and cover a broad spectrum of topics related to aquatic resources, sustainable practices, and the blue economy. Abstracts should be submitted through the online submission portal provided by the deadline. Please adhere to the following guidelines:

Abstract Length: Maximum 300 words.
Format: Use the provided template available on the conference website.
Language: Submissions should be in English.
Content: Clearly state the objectives, methods, results, and conclusions of your research or presentation.

Click on this link https://forms.gle/ieqYmsm4mrsyYzUT8 to access the abstract submission portal. Create an account or log in if you already have one. Follow the instructions to submit your abstract using the provided template.

Abstact Template(Click Here)

Review Process

All submitted abstracts will undergo a peer-review process by the scientific committee. Notification of acceptance will be sent by 31^st March 2024. Accepted abstracts will be included in the conference program and considered for oral or poster presentations

Delegates must register for the conference
by 30^th May2024 to confirm their
participation.

Registration fee will include access to the conference sessions and plenaries, lunches, tea breaks (10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), cocktail and excursion, as well as a welcome pack containing a variety of conference goodies

Online (Virtual Participants) 50USD

1USD = 130KES

Category	East Africa ($)	Developing countries($)	Developed countries($)
Student	50	70	150
Regular	100	150	300
Exhibitor	500	500	1000

notification of acceptance will be sent by 31^st March 2024. Accepted abstracts will be included in the

Conference Exhibition

Along with the conference, a Blue Economy Exhibition and Information Center will be set up within the Conference venue. The Exhibition Centre is open to local, national, regional and international players in the blue space providing a platform to share information and demonstrations on the role of science in the blue economy. The Centre targets Government agencies, innovators, academia, entrepreneurs, financial institutions and other stakeholders to showcase their activities while allowing sale or exchange of Blue materials during peak Conference break periods. The cost for exhibition is USD 500 (Africa and developing countries) and USD 1,000 (for developed countries). The Exhibition fee covers Exhibition booth (3x3)m, Conference package for two exhibitors, a table and 2 chairs. Extra participants will need to register as delegates. Exhibition booking allows for two participants with access to the full conference package and carry-on’s. For more information, write an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (Subject: EXHIBITION) or call +254725788337 (Call and WhatsApp).

ARBEC II 2024 Registration Fee Payment options

Option #1: Swift

Account Name: KMFRI Kisumu Micro Project

Bank Name: National Bank of Kenya

Account Number: 01003023652400

Bank code: 12

Branch code: 050

Swift code: NBKEKENXXXX

Send the payment details to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Option #2: Via Mpesa

Select "Pay Bill" from the M-Pesa menu

Enter the Paybill number 625625

Enter the account number: Ac No: 01003023652400.

Enter the amount you wish to pay as per your delegate category

Enter your M-Pesa PIN

Confirm that all details are correct.

You should get a notification that you have paid to KMFRI KISUMU micro project account

Send the payment details to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Hotel Reservation Details
Click Here for Hotels and Reservations
Click Here for Events

Boost Your Impact as a Sponsor

Enhance your organization's prominence by becoming a Sponsor of ARBEC II. Connect with a diverse global audience of Blue Economy and enjoy the flexibility of various customizable options. Explore our tailored sponsorship choices that align seamlessly with your unique requirements. Your participation ensures a powerful presence, maximizing exposure to a global community at the forefront of Blue Economy advancements.

Join us in Kisumu

ARBEC II is more than a conference; it's a commitment to shaping a sustainable future. Join us in Kisumu to contribute to the global conversation on science-driven stewardship for a thriving blue economy.

For more information and to submit your abstract, please visit https://www.kmfri.go.ke/.