Overview : Currently the oceans economy contributes only 2% to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment has estimated that the oceans economy has the potential to contribute up to R177 billion (approx. $35 billion)[1] to GDP by 2033 and create approximately 1 million jobs. South Africa has a comparative advantage in this sector which it has yet to begin fully leveraging and exploring. Government has begun implementation of an Oceans Economy initiative under Operation Phakisa with a focus on: Marine transport and manufacturing activities; Offshore oil and gas exploration; Aquaculture; Marine protection services and ocean governance; Small harbours; and Marine and coastal tourism. Though this provides an established action plan for unlocking the oceans economy, there is growing concern that this will result in the exclusion of small-scale fisheries and coastal communities, as well as concern regarding the focus on mineral and gas extraction which prioritises economic growth without considering environmental sustainability. There is little known regarding existing innovations and SMMEs in the oceans economy, as well as pathways for growth and enterprise development. This project will address this gap through a National Oceans Economy Innovation Challenge which will surface innovations and entrepreneurs within the ecosystem and create a community of practice for a thriving oceans economy. This project will contribute to unlocking the oceans economy by building on three core pillars: - Innovation to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and increase impact in the delivery of development;
- Entrepreneurship to contribute to economic growth, job creation, and the diversification of the economy;
- Connection to bring together actors in the ecosystem to enhance collaboration, knowledge sharing, and network creation to leverage existing activities to enable growth of the industry.
Based on the above, UNDP requires service of a service provider to engage an implementing partner to plan, launch, manage, and deliver a National Oceans Economy Innovation Challenge. (Detailed Terms of Reference can be found in one of the links on this advert) |