Gambian women at a fish landing site

As we celebrate World Fisheries Day on November 21st, the Gambia finds itself at a critical juncture to ensure sustainable management of its fisheries sector. This year's theme, "Build enabling policy environments for small-scale artisanal fisheries," underscores the pivotal role that small-scale fisherfolk play in safeguarding food security and livelihoods.  The theme is relevant for the Gambia, a nation with a rich marine heritage.

The history of World Fisheries Day goes back to 1997 when the global community recognized the need for concerted efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices. In 2003, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) formally designated November 21st as World Fisheries Day, a day to reflect on the challenges facing our oceans and the communities that depend on them.

Interventions such as PROREFISH Gambia and  FISH4ACP support local fishing communities. These projects  build capacity, foster partnerships, provide sustainable livelihoods, encourage better governance and mitigate climate change. FISH4ACP will strengthen the oyster value chain sector by introducing   new production methods for oyster aquaculture.

Collaboration between FAO Gambia and the government and working hand-in-hand  promotes policies that support small-scale fishers and integrate their invaluable knowledge into decision-making processes. This collaborative approach recognizes that sustainable fisheries management is not just an environmental imperative but also a social and economic one.

However, challenges persist, illegal, unreported practices and overfishing loom large. As we celebrate World Fisheries Day, it is crucial for actors to collaborate and take decisive actions to discourage overfishing. Implementing and enforcing stringent regulations, promoting responsible fishing practices, and investing in surveillance and monitoring systems are essential steps.

Furthermore, public awareness campaigns can educate and highlight the importance of sustainable fishing practices. Incentives for adopting responsible fishing methods and penalties for violations can create a deterrent against overfishing.

On this World Fisheries Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the well-being of our oceans and rivers and the communities that depend on them. By building enabling policy environments for small-scale artisanal fisheries, we pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for the Gambia's fisheries sector. The collaboration between FAO Gambia and the government, coupled with the impactful PROREFISH Gambia and FISH4ACP projects, sets a positive trajectory. Let this be a call to action for all stakeholders to work together, ensuring that  fisheries remain a source of food and nutrition security for generations to come.