ABER Celebrates Patron Bernard Mahara Mutanga, Reaffirms Pan-African Blue Economy Commitment
ABUJA — The Africa Blue Economy Roundtable (ABER) has celebrated its Zimbabwean Patron, industrialist Bernard Mahara Mutanga, on his birthday, commending his contributions to industrial development and his commitment to sustainable growth and Pan-African cooperation.
In a congratulatory message signed by its Founder and Convener, Dr. Piriye Kiyaramo, ABER described Mutanga as a visionary industrialist and champion of the blue economy whose work reflects the principles of inclusive development, climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
Kiyaramo said Mutanga’s industrial leadership aligns with ABER’s mission to harness Africa’s industrial capacity, blue economy resources and diaspora partnerships to promote sustainable development across the continent.
He also commended the industrialist’s advocacy for youth inclusion in the blue economy, describing his commitment to industrial transformation and Pan-African cooperation as an inspiration to the ABER community.
“As ABER’s Patron in Zimbabwe and a strong advocate for youth inclusion in the blue economy, your commitment to industrial transformation, sustainable development, and Pan-African cooperation continues to inspire us,” Kiyaramo stated.
In his response, Mutanga expressed gratitude for the birthday felicitation, describing the recognition as both an honour and a motivation to advance his commitment to Africa’s development.
He highlighted his involvement with Berhard Development Corporation, which he described as a $2.5 billion cross-border industrial hub featuring BER-Pig Iron & Steel, with a stated production capacity of 1.7 million tonnes.
He also cited his role as president of Bern-Win Utopia Eco-Smart City, a proposed $2.5 billion development designed to accommodate 400,000 residents.
Mutanga, who also serves as Director-General of the National Chamber of Commerce, DRC SADC Region, covering Zimbabwe and Botswana, reaffirmed his support for ABER’s Pan-African vision.
He said his strategic partnerships with the State of the African Diaspora (SOAD), PEN CT SA, the University of Zimbabwe, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, and the Young Achievers Trust align with efforts to strengthen industrial capacity, promote sustainable development and expand opportunities for young Africans.
Mutanga further reiterated his commitment to youth inclusion, industrial transformation and blue economy innovation, pledging to continue supporting initiatives aimed at building a sustainable African future.
“I am honoured to celebrate this day with the ABER family, and I pledge to continue building Africa’s future through sustainable industry and blue economy innovation,” he said.
ABER said its work focuses on promoting sustainable governance and investment across key blue economy sectors, including fisheries, aquaculture, marine transportation, renewable ocean energy, coastal tourism and climate resilience.
The organisation seeks to strengthen collaboration among coastal and landlocked African communities and the African Diaspora, with the broader goal of unlocking the continent’s blue economy potential for inclusive and sustainable development.
