Welcome to the new month! In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we explore “Building an Equitable Blue Future in Madagascar” with Dr Paubert Mahatante, Madagascar’s Minister of Fisheries and Blue
Economy. Dr Mahatante, who holds a PhD in applied oceanography and lectures at Toliara University on oceanography, fisheries, and climate change, brings a rare blend of scientific insight and policy
leadership to the discussion.
We open with the Malagasy proverb: “A tree becomes a canoe because of the goodness of the land where it took root”—a fitting reflection of Madagascar’s deep connection to its oceans and coasts. With over 5,000 km of coastline and some of the world’s richest biodiversity, Madagascar’s blue economy has vast potential yet faces pressing governance and sustainability challenges.
Our conversation explored seabed mining, unlocking ocean economy opportunities, and addressing maritime security, highlighting how technology, strategic partnerships, patrol vessels, and even drones are transforming enforcement capacity. We also raised provocative questions on how to balance international donor interests with local priorities, and whether emerging ocean opportunities risk repeating extractive patterns of the past.
Dr Mahatante responded with candour, sharing his vision of a just and inclusive blue economy, one where ocean benefits reach the people who depend on them, and where sustainability and equity are at the core.
This is a powerful conversation on technology, partnerships, and
community-driven solutions, and why Madagascar is on the path to becoming a model for inclusive ocean governance in Africa.
You won’t want to miss this one!
#AfriCan!
In this episode, we introduce you to Dr Dyhia Belhabib’s PEW fellowship project: Tracing Illegally Sourced Fish to Consumers. Dr Belhabib was awarded a PEW fellowship in 2024 in recognition of her contributions to ocean governance and sustainability issues.
Dr Belhabib is not only a leading voice in tackling fisheries crime but also a Co-founder of African Geopardy. In the early days of the podcast, we had the privilege of co-hosting episodes while Dyhia was still able to contribute — though eventually, time zone differences and other commitments made that tricky to sustain.
We finally managed to sit down together in person for the first time in Bali in November 2024, just an hour before Dyhia had to leave for the airport. With barely any time to spare, we thought — let’s do this before you go!
I’m only uploading the episode now because it needed some edits and, to be honest, we laughed so much during the conversation that we weren’t entirely sure how much of it to share! But in the end, it’s a fantastic episode that gives real insight into Dyhia’s project and why it matters. I hope it inspires you to find your own way of ‘getting in the way’ when it comes to protecting our oceans.
You can read more about Dr Belhabib’s project here: https://www.pew.org/en/projects/marine-fellows/fellows-directory/2024/dyhia-belhabib Dyhia Belhabib, Ph.D. | The Pew Charitable Trusts
#AfriCan
#PewFellowship
#Findawaytogetintheway
🎙 In this latest episode, we explore "Empowered Together: The Women in Maritime of West and Central Africa" with Ms Sylvia Asana Dauda Owu, Director of Operations at the Ghana Shippers' Authority and President of Women in Maritime of West and Central Africa (WiMOWCA).
Ms Dauda Owu shares the founding vision behind WiMOWCA, an initiative supported by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), established to promote the inclusion, visibility, and leadership of women across the maritime and port sectors in West and Central Africa.
Our discussion looks at the structural and cultural barriers that continue to limit women's participation in maritime careers,
encompassing port operations and logistics, seafaring, and executive leadership roles. We also examine how gendered perceptions of physical capability are increasingly outdated in the face of technological advancement and automation, particularly in port environments where technical expertise is now more critical than physical strength.
This episode serves as a powerful reminder that maritime safety,
security, sustainability, and innovation are strengthened when gender equity and equality are embraced, fostering better collaboration and opportunities for both women and men across the sector.
Enjoy listening and do subscribe to our podcast.
Thank you.
This episode was recorded in September 2024.
🎙️ In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we spotlight "Africa's Future in Focus: Empowering Youth for Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding" with our guest, Ms Simone Mbodé Diouf, the African Union's Youth Ambassador for Peace in West Africa.
Ms. Diouf shares her journey into the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) space, what drives her work, and the goals she is championing across the region. A seasoned international consultant on Women, Peace, and Security and co-founder of the Association for the Promotion of Young Women's Leadership in Senegal, she brings grassroots and global experience to the conversation.
Ambassador Diof reflected on the peace and conflict dynamics in West Africa through the lens of YPS, tackling issues from youth unemployment, conflicts and climate change to governance challenges. With youth making up nearly 53% of the region's population and 19.2% not in education, employment, or training, Ms Diouf reflects on how these realities influence peacebuilding efforts and why youth must be at the centre of solutions.
She also shares inspiring stories of youth-led initiatives, such as those in Niger, where young people are boldly leading change in the face of insecurity. We end with her reflections on what gives her hope, policy recommendations, and a heartfelt message to young Africans and peacebuilders everywhere.
You may hear my son in the background. I thought of editing it, but I left it in. It's a reminder of the many hats we wear and a small window into my life as a mother.
#YouthPeaceandSecurity
#Peacebuilding
Welcome to the new month and the latest episode of African Geopardy! This time, we focus on a pressing issue at the intersection of resource governance, organised crime, and security: Gold and Terrorism Financing in the Sahel.
Our guest, Dr Oluwole Ojewale, Regional Organised Crime Observatory Coordinator – Central Africa, unpacks how illegal gold mining has become a crucial financial lifeline for terrorist networks in the Sahel. As gold increasingly replaces cash in illicit transactions, its unregulated trade fuels instability, undermining state authority and prolonging violent conflicts. We also examine why the Kimberley Process and similar schemes designed to curb conflict minerals have failed to prevent illicit gold from funding armed groups.
Beyond the security dimension, we discuss the broader implications of criminalising artisanal mining, drawing comparisons with petroleum refining in the Niger Delta and gold mining in Ghana. Blanket crackdowns have often pushed vulnerable communities further into informality, exacerbating both economic hardships and security threats. Dr Ojewale challenges this approach, advocating for a more integrated response that considers formalising artisanal mining where local livelihoods depend on it while strengthening governance to cut off illicit financial flows.
I am grateful to Dr. Ojewale for sharing his expertise, and I invite you to listen and join the conversation!
Welcome to a new month! In this episode of African Geopardy, we
explore "The Deep Blue Revolution: How Digital Technological Tools Are
Transforming Maritime Security in Nigeria" with Mrs Owolabi Gladys,
Head of the Deep Blue Unit at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and
Safety Agency (NIMASA). With over 31 years of experience in the
maritime industry, she provides invaluable insights into Nigeria’s
ambitious efforts to combat piracy and maritime crimes through digital
technology and integrated security processes.
We examine how drones, satellite surveillance, and AI-driven
monitoring systems reshape Nigeria’s maritime security landscape. But
how effective have these tools been? What challenges does Nigeria face
in integrating digital solutions into its security framework? Mrs
Olwolabi also sheds light on collaborations between the government,
Navy, private sector, and international partners, the cybersecurity
risks of increasing digital reliance, and key lessons other African
nations can learn from Nigeria’s experience.
Looking ahead, we discuss the future of tech-driven maritime
governance and the policy and operational shifts needed to ensure the
long-term success of the Deep Blue Project.
Enjoy this compelling discussion on digital innovation, security,
and the evolving frontiers of Africa’s maritime security architecture.
#AfriCan
#MaritimeSecurity
How do nations coordinate efforts against piracy, illegal fishing, and
other maritime crimes? What challenges and successes define the ICC's
mission?
In the February episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we explore these pressing questions in our discussion, "Coordinating for Safer Seas: Perspectives from the Interregional Coordination Centre (ICC) Yaoundé." with Navy Captain Bell Bell, Head of Information and communication management Division and Acting Director of the ICC Yaoundé.
Captain Bell highlights the innovative strategies driving the ICC's
mission, including the transformative power of digital technological
tools in revolutionizing Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). These
advancements enhance the ability to monitor and secure vast ocean
territories but also bring new challenges. Captain Bell sheds light on
the growing threat of "cyberpiracy" and the complexities of navigating
an increasingly digital maritime landscape.
Captain Bell also shares unique perspectives on the root causes of
piracy, emphasizing the role of economic instability as a key driver.
Learn how the ICC Yaoundé addresses these challenges head-on,
balancing regional cooperation, technological innovation, and
on-the-ground action to create safer seas.
Please tune in for a compelling episode that uncovers the triumphs and
trials of maritime security and discovers how collaboration and
innovation are shaping the future of our oceans in the Gulf of Guinea.
You may find this article useful if you are interested in the digital-technology themes discussed in the episode.
https://theconversation.com/west-africas-coast-was-a-haven-for-piracy-and-illegal-fishing-how-technology-is-changing-the-picture-222803
#AfriCan
Happy New Year and welcome to the latest episode of AfriCan Geopardy.
In this episode, we discuss the evolution of ECOWAS as it marks 50 years of fostering regional integration and development in West Africa. The discussion explores the transition from an "ECOWAS of States" to an "ECOWAS of the People," with our guest, Her Excellency, Ambassador Josephine Nkrumah highlighting the strides made in promoting economic cooperation, peace, and security.
We examined the challenges of making ECOWAS more people-centered, its role in addressing pressing regional issues, and the vision for the next 50 years. The discussion would not have been complete if we did not talk about the decision by Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger to leave the Community.
Join us for an engaging conversation about the past, present, and future of this vital regional bloc.
#ECOWASofthepeople
As we wrap up the year, this special episode of the African Geopardy Podcast revisits the impactful discussions and critical insights shared throughout 2024. From January to December, we explored various topics shaping geopolitical issues in Africa, including maritime safety, security, terrorism, insurgency, and fisheries sustainability.
We started the year in January with an insightful conversation on "A Holistic Approach to Maritime Security and a Review of Progress Made by the Yaoundé Architecture." Senior Captain Bamele, the Operational Coordination Director for State Action at Sea, Cote d'Ivoire and Navy Captain Atonfack, the Technical Adviser to the Ministry of Defence and the Spokesperson for the Cameroonian Armed Forces, and concluded the year by discussing "The Importance of the Upcoming Election and Fisheries Transparency for the Future of Ghana's Fishing Sector," featuring Dr Kamal Deen-Ali, the Executive Director of the Centre for Maritime Law and Security (CEMLAWS) Africa.
Join us as we reflect on these significant dialogues, celebrate our amazing guests, and highlight the innovative solutions and bold ideas that are shaping the future of Africa's maritime domain.
To our listeners, thank you for your continued support. May you have a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year when it comes.
#AfriCan
#Wefoundawaytogetintheway
In this episode of African Geopardy, we explore "The Importance of the Upcoming Election and Fisheries Transparency for the Future of Ghana's Fishing Sector" with Dr Kamal-Deen Ali, Team Leader at the Centre for Maritime Law and Security (CEMLAWS) Africa.
Drawing from his extensive experience in ocean governance, maritime security, and international law, Dr Ali shares the crucial role of Ghana's fisheries sector in national development. He discusses the importance of transparency in fisheries management and the policies and reforms the next government should prioritise for sustainability. Furthermore, he emphasises why fisheries issues should be a central focus in the upcoming election.
Whether you are a voter, a policymaker, or simply passionate about Ghana's fisheries, this episode provides compelling reasons to understand why fisheries matter and why citizens should demand accountability and progress in this vital sector as they make their votes count.
Tune in for an insightful discussion on shaping the future of Ghana's fishing sector!
In this month's episode of AfriCan Geopardy, the research team from Dr Ife Okafor-Yarwood’s PEW Fellowship Project "Creating Synergies between Indigenous Practices and Scientific Knowledge (ISIPSK)" share their reflections following a month-long field research experience. The episode was recorded on July 30th to capture the team's insights and highlight the significance of collaborative research.
You will hear from several discussants, including Mrs Josephine Asare, a PhD student involved in the research, Mr Kwesi Johnson, Mr Nana Kweigyah, Mr Kenneth Arthur, Mr Gabriel Mevuta and Mr Emmanuel Tenkorang.
Throughout the conversation, the participants shared their experiences from the field, highlighting the benefits of collaborative research, especially involving people directly affected by the issues researched as part of the research and data collection process.
Enjoy and please do share.
#Sankofa
#Gobackandretrieveit
#Knowledgecoproduction
In this month's episode of African Geopardy, we discussed "The strategic role of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) in advancing maritime safety and security". Our guest, Dr Paul Adalikwu, the Secretary General of MOWCA, shared his extensive knowledge and experience on the topic.
During the discussion, we explored MOWCA's strategic role in addressing threats to navigation and security and its ambitious vision to become a continental organization with representation from other regions. We covered topics ranging from countering security threats to improving navigation safety in the Gulf of Guinea and effectively addressing obstacles.
Whether you are interested in maritime safety and security or simply curious about efforts to enhance navigation safety, this is an episode you will not want to miss!
Thanks for tuning in.
#AfriCan!
Welcome to AfriCan Geopardy. In this episode, we discussed "Improving Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region" with Mr Hassani Ahamada Soilihi, a lawyer and maritime expert from the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC). Mr. Soilihi played a key role in introducing the "Safe Seas for Africa" programme, and at the IOC, he has been instrumental in advancing IOC projects focused on oil spill response, fisheries law reform, and environmental concerns.
During our discussion, we explored the complex challenges of maritime insecurity in the Western Indian Ocean region and the ongoing efforts to improve maritime domain awareness (MDA) and legal enforcement. We discussed the various constraints in this area, including issues such as over-internationalization and the duplication of responses. Additionally, we looked into the changes necessary for sustained progress, including specific actions or changes that the African Union can implement to address these issues in a new and effective way.
The link below provides more information about the IOC's work to strengthen maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean Region.
https://www.commissionoceanindien.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2020_PolicyBrief_web_en.pdf
In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, Ife Okafor-Yarwood, discusses the "politicisation of unsustainable fisheries practices in Africa". Her reflection is driven by what she views as the "Chinalisation" of threats to sustainable fisheries in Africa, which she believes undermine collective efforts towards sustainable fisheries. The discussion explores numerous instances where EU and European companies and vessels have contributed to unsustainable fishing practices and by extension, the depletion of fish stock on the continent.
For policymakers and implementers on the African continent, the focus should be strengthening the laws, empowering enforcement agencies, improving monitoring, control, and surveillance capability, and collaborating with their neighbours.
If you are interested in learning more about the issues raised, you may check the following sources:
