From December 12-14, 2024, the Interactive Training on Effective Fisheries Management was organized by AU-IBAR and AUDA-NEPAD through the FishGov 2 Project, funded by the European Union, in collaboration with key regional stakeholders. The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of African Union (AU) Member States in adopting data-driven and inclusive fisheries management practices. This three-day event brought together experts, policymakers, and practitioners to share insights, strategies, and experiences that would improve the sustainability and governance of Africa’s fisheries sector. The workshop addressed critical challenges, including poor coordination, weak governance, high incidences of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, limited evidence-based data, and inadequate infrastructure.
Core Themes and Technical Sessions
The workshop commenced with an introduction to the importance of data in scientific fisheries management, underscoring the need for evidence-based policies and practices. Dr. Mohamed Seisay, Senior Fisheries Management Expert at AU-IBAR, emphasized Africa’s fisheries resources and the essential role data plays in developing effective management strategies. This was followed by a practical session on the African Fisheries and Aquaculture Database, which facilitates the collection, sharing, and management of data for informed decision-making. Participants were trained on how to install and use the database system, gaining hands-on experience with the tool.
A key focus of the training was on Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) systems, particularly in the fight against IUU fishing. Mr. Makane Diouf Samb N’DIAYE highlighted the significance of MCS systems and the necessity for regional cooperation to address IUU fishing challenges. The session covered various MCS tools, such as the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) and Automatic Identification System (AIS), as well as shore-based electronic monitoring systems. These technologies were presented as critical for enhancing surveillance and enforcing sustainable fisheries management practices. Participants exchanged insights on integrating socio-economic data into MCS practices to improve compliance and effectiveness.
On Day 3, the focus shifted to Fisheries Management Planning, with an in-depth exploration of inclusive governance frameworks and co-management principles. Dr. Hamady Diop emphasized the role of socio-economic data in shaping fisheries management plans, stressing the importance of participatory approaches and integrating socio-economic considerations into management practices. The session provided a comprehensive overview of the fishing management cycle and discussed the challenges related to data collection, governance, and the use of data systems at both regional and global levels.
The final segment of Day 3 focused on the implementation of participatory governance in fisheries management. Dr. Diop led discussions on how AU Member States are currently applying co-management and participatory approaches, emphasizing the importance of involving local communities and stakeholders in decision-making processes. This session showcased successful case studies and practical examples where these approaches had been implemented, offering valuable insights for scaling up such efforts across Africa. Participants also discussed the integration of socio-economic data to ensure that management plans align with the needs and realities of local communities.
Workshop Outcomes and Recommendations
The training significantly improved participants’ capacity in statistical data systems, knowledge of MCS tools, and understanding of socio-economic data integration in fisheries management. It also enhanced proficiency in developing and implementing fisheries management plans.
Recommendations for AU Member States and the African Union include:
• Prioritizing accurate data collection and sharing to facilitate effective fisheries management.
• Actively involving local communities in monitoring and management processes to enhance compliance.
• Fostering cross-border collaboration through joint technical meetings and data-sharing initiatives for shared water bodies.
• Addressing capacity gaps through exchange visits and targeted training programs.
• Integrating fisheries and aquaculture development into national development plans to ensure alignment with broader development goals.
The training workshop successfully built the capacity of participants, strengthened collaboration among stakeholders, and provided actionable recommendations to enhance fisheries governance across Africa. By focusing on data-driven strategies, inclusive governance, and sustainable practices, the workshop contributed to advancing the objectives of the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa (PFRS), supporting the long-term sustainability of Africa’s fisheries sector.
Source : AU-IBAR
