By Prof. Fidelis Aondover GberindyerÂ
Veterinarians and Pharmacologists play vital roles in advancing the marine and Blue Economy, even in non-coastal corridors where direct ocean access is absent. Their expertise supports sustainable practices in inland processing, research, and supply chains tied to marine resources like aquaculture products and biotech derivatives
Veterinarians ensure aquatic animal health in land-based aquaculture facilities, which are common in non-coastal areas for farming fish and shellfish transported from marine sources. They monitor disease prevention, biosecurity, and welfare standards to maintain supply chains for the Blue Economy’s fisheries and mariculture sectors. This inland work reduces losses and supports food security without relying on coastal infrastructure.
Pharmacologists develop and regulate veterinary drugs for marine species, testing dosages and safety in laboratory settings far from the coast. In the Blue Economy, they drive marine biotechnology by deriving pharmaceuticals from ocean organisms, fostering innovation in non-coastal R&D hubs. Their efforts combat antimicrobial resistance and enhance productivity in inland processing of blue resources.
In non-coastal corridors, these professionals enable value chains like inland aqua-feed production and biotech extraction from marine imports. By integrating health and pharmacology, they promote sustainable growth in sectors such as marine-derived nutraceuticals, minimizing environmental risks from land-based activities. This extends the Blue Economy’s reach, creating jobs and economic diversification beyond shorelines.
Kenyan, Ugandan, and Rwandan governments have optimised the specialities of these professionals to maximise the socioeconomic gains of Blue economy to boast their overall economy.
Revd. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia is on the right track through the Commissioner of Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Terzungwe Iyaghigba.
Prof. Gberindyer writes from Makurdi, the Benue state CapitalÂ
