Cameroonian Maritime Expert Appointed ABER National Coordinator

Cameroonian Maritime Expert Appointed ABER National CoordinatorThe Africa Blue Economy Roundtable (ABER) has appointed Mrs. Ako Joan AFANGAH Orock as its National Coordinator for the Republic of Cameroon.The appointment, which takes immediate effect, is expected to strengthen ABER’s efforts to advance inclusive and sustainable Blue Economy development in Cameroon and the Central African region.Orock is currently Deputy Director for Maritime Border Area Development at Cameroon’s Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development.She brings extensive experience in sustainable development, maritime governance and border-area planning to her new role.With more than 400 kilometres of Atlantic coastline and extensive river systems, Cameroon has significant potential to expand its Blue Economy through fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, maritime trade and other ocean-based activities.ABER said Orock’s appointment reflects its commitment to partnering with government institutions and other stakeholders to unlock the country’s maritime potential sustainably and inclusively.As National Coordinator, Orock will coordinate ABER’s programmes and partnerships across Cameroon, working with government agencies, the private sector, academia and coastal and riverine communities.She will also facilitate the establishment of ABER Blue Clubs in schools and coastal and riverine communities to promote ocean literacy, environmental conservation and youth entrepreneurship.Orock is expected to strengthen policy alignment between ABER initiatives, Cameroon’s national development priorities and the African Union’s 2050 Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy.She will further mobilise support for women- and youth-led enterprises in fisheries, aquaculture, tourism and maritime trade.The new National Coordinator will also promote collaboration with ABER National Coordinators in other Central African countries to advance regional Blue Economy initiatives.Commenting on the appointment, Dr. Piriye Kiyaramo, Convener and Chief Executive Officer of ABER, described Orock as an ideal leader to champion the organisation’s vision in Cameroon.“We are delighted to welcome Mrs. Orock to the ABER Leadership Team.“Her position within government and dedication to maritime border communities make her the ideal leader to champion ABER’s vision in Cameroon.“We are confident that under her coordination, Cameroon will become a model for inclusive Blue Economy transformation in Central Africa,” Kiyaramo said.Orock’s appointment is for an initial two-year term, renewable based on performance.ABER is a volunteer-driven, non-profit continental platform committed to harnessing Africa’s Blue Wealth for prosperity through advocacy, enterprise development and policy engagement.