Abstract
This study investigates the social and economic impact of Blue Economy initiatives on low-income communities in Zanzibar, with a focus on FunguRefu and Nungwi in North ‘A’ District, Unguja. The research is guided by two theoretical perspectives, Communication for Social Theory and the Sustainable Livelihood framework, which provide insights into how awareness is spread, how participation is shaped, and how livelihood outcomes are influenced by Blue Economic initiative programs. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, targeting small-scale fishers and traders in the study areas. A sample of 250 respondents was calculated by considering Kothari’s formula, with data collected through structured questionnaires. The study employed both random and conveniencesampling techniques to capture knowledgeable participants and active community members. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics with the support of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20, and results were presented in tables, frequencies, and percentages. Preliminary findings reveal that while awareness of the Blue Economic initiatives is more than 80% well known, participation remains moderate, with limited opportunities for decision-making. Economic impacts are mixed, with some households experiencing improved income and livelihoods, while others face exclusion due to barriers such as limited training, financial inaccessibility, and cultural perspectives. Social impacts are evident in improved access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure, though benefits remain unevenly distributed among households. The study highlights that Blue Economic initiatives have the potential to transform livelihoods in Zanzibar. However, without inclusive governance, unbiased access to resources, and proper management of targeted groups, the expected goals for the communities will not be successfully achieved
Cite this
Ali Othman Omar1*; Dr. Iddi Salum Haji; PhD1& Dr. Sharifa Omar Salim, (2026), Social and Economic Impact of Blue Economic Initiatives to Low-Income Communities in Zanzibar: The Case of North ‘A’ District at Fungurefu and Nungwi., East African Journal of Business and Economics, 9(Issue 1), 1-8