The new initiative, NAVAC, aims to expand sustainable and nutritious aquatic food value chains in five countries, improving food security and local livelihoods. Supported by a €20 million EU contribution, the project will apply Blue Transformation principles to reach vulnerable populations.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Union (EU) have launched a €20 million project to strengthen access to safe and nutritious aquatic foods in Africa and Latin America. The five-year initiative, titled New Aquatic Food Value Chains for Sustainable Healthy Diets in Fragile Contexts (NAVAC), will operate in Chad, Colombia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania and South Sudan. FAO will also contribute an initial $500,000 through its Technical Cooperation Programme.
Godfrey Magwenzi
According to FAO Deputy Director-General Godfrey Magwenzi, the project seeks to expand the supply of sustainable, affordable, and safe aquatic foods for nutritionally vulnerable groups, while fostering innovation and economic growth in local communities. “NAVAC promotes Blue Transformation innovations that ensure both nutrition benefits and livelihood opportunities,” Magwenzi said.
The project will be implemented in collaboration with the Technical University of Denmark. It will begin by analysing existing aquatic value chains to identify gaps and develop upgrading strategies that increase availability and accessibility of aquatic foods. Advanced biotechnologies and product development methods will be explored to deliver nutritious foods more efficiently to those most in need.
Annette Schneegans
EU Deputy Permanent Representative to FAO Annette Schneegans emphasized that NAVAC reflects the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, supporting sustainable development through inclusive value chains and environmental resilience.
NAVAC builds on lessons from FISH4ACP, a previous FAO-EU initiative that improved fisheries and aquaculture value chains across Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, contributing to nutrition, job creation and economic growth.