Oyster farmers and FISH4ACP Project Officer on site

In Kartong, Kombo South, women oyster harvesters are embracing a new aquaculture technology, known as spat collectors, as part of the FISH4ACP project. This initiative aims to transform the Oyster Value Chain and boost productivity in The Gambia.

The process involves deploying spat collectors in the sea for a period before bringing them ashore and placing them on mesh bags, where they incubate oyster larvae or eggs until they reach marketable size.

Khadidiatou Diallo, National Professional Officer for FISH4ACP, explains, "This method increases the  productivity and value of oysters, empowering women to generate more income. We intend packing, adding value to the product as well as  selling fresh oysters to hotels, restaurants and supermarkets."

Implemented by FAO and funded by  the EU  and BMZ, FISH4ACP has identified four strategic sites – Kartong, Block, Kubune, and Meme – to pilot this new technology. The innovation is expected to not only increase income for women harvester as alluded to by Ms. Diallo; it will improve working conditions and provide consumers with more opportunities to enjoy fresh oysters.

James Green, involved in the project, highlights the user-friendly nature of spat collectors. "They gather small oysters from the sea, which we then transfer to mesh bags or floating bags for cultivation into very big oysters during harvest."

Marie Demba Kartong, an oyster farmer benefiting from the technology, attests to its impact. "This method has greatly improved our work conditions and allows year-round harvesting, unlike the seasonal four-month window we previously had."

The adoption of new aquaculture technology by women oyster harvesters in Kartong, Kombo South, marks a significant step forward in enhancing the oyster value chain in The Gambia. Through initiatives like FISH4ACP, implemented by FAO and funded by EU  and BMZ, these innovations aim to not only increase productivity and income for women but also improve working conditions and provide consumers with access to high-quality fresh oysters. With the successful implementation of these project, the future of oyster harvesting in The Gambia looks promising, promising a brighter and more sustainable future for all involved in the industry.