Ghana launches Africa’s first Blue Food Innovation Hub and opens startup accelerator

The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana has led the launch of Africa’s first Blue Food Innovation Hub, in a move aimed at strengthening Ghana’s role in the continent’s evolving blue economy.

The hub was launched at an event held in February 2026, bringing together stakeholders from various key sectors including fisheries, aquaculture, policy, and development.

Speaking at the event, Ghana's Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Hon. Emelia Arthur described the initiative as a strategic milestone for the country.

"Fisheries and Aquaculture are not just about food, they are about national security, livelihoods, and Africa's sustainable future," she said in a statement published by BFIH in LinkedIn. "We are not waiting for solutions, we are designing them. Africa is charting its own course toward a sustainable blue economy."

The hub organisers point out that aquatic foods sector plays a major role in Ghana’s economy and food system. More than 3 million Ghanaians depend on fisheries and aquaculture, while fish accounts for nearly 60% of the country’s animal protein intake.

The initiative has been convened in collaboration with the World Economic Forum, and forms part of the global Food Innovation Hubs Network. Ghana is the first African country to establish a Blue Food Innovation Hub under that framework.

According to the organisers, the hub is intended to connect research, industry, and policy in order to accelerate practical solutions for the sector. Its main areas of focus will include capacity development, innovation, market access, sustainable financing, and job creation, particularly for women, young people, and marginalized groups.

By 2032, the hub is projected to unlock at least USD 10 million in private-sector investment while supporting more inclusive growth across the value chain.

"The Blue Food Innovation Hub is designed to become a transformative force within Ghana's blue economy, with the potential to drive innovation, investment, and sustainable growth in aquaculture," Dr Henry Anim Somuah, Chairman of Ghana's Chamber of Aquaculture, said at the launch. "Collaboration among stakeholders will be critical to achieving this vision and advancing aquaculture development."

Following the launch, the organization has opened applications for the first cohort of its Blue Food Innovation Hub Accelerator Program, aimed at startups working in aquaculture and blue food innovation. The program will offer mentorship, access to industry experts, and support for companies looking to refine products, attract investment, and scale their operations.

Applications for the inaugural cohort close on 30 April 2026, and can be made online via the Hub's website.

The Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana also acknowledged the support of several partners involved in the initiative, including Pangea Africa Ltd., The Hunger Project-Ghana, 24-Hour Economy & Accelerated Export Development, the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, the World Food Forum, and the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa.