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Each year, 21 November is celebrated worldwide as World Fisheries Day, emphasizing the vital role of fisheries in supporting food security, enhancing nutrition, and providing livelihoods for millions of people.

In Mozambique, the 2024 celebration focused on the country's efforts to address challenges such as overfishing, illegal fishing, and climate change impacts. The event took place in the Mangalisse fishing community in Vilankulo.

The theme for the celebrations, “Promoting the Practice of Sea Governance in an Inclusive and Participatory Manner,” emphasized Mozambique’s commitment to fostering sustainable marine resource governance through collaboration.

The event culminated with the signing of the Fisheries Co-management Agreement, which represents a shared commitment to sustainable fisheries management, and was endorsed by the Director of the National Fisheries Administration (ADNAP), the Vilankulo District’s Permanent Secretary (representing the District Administrator), and the Presidents of the Community Fisheries Councils (CCPs) from the Macunhe, Guitine, and Mabandene fishing communities. The Fisheries Co-management Agreement establishes a collaborative partnership between the government and fishery resource users to jointly manage fisheries. Under this arrangement, both parties share responsibilities and authority, including decision-making, implementation, and enforcement, to enhance fisheries governance and strengthen the capacities of fishers. The maritime Fisheries Regulation in Mozambique supports the development of such co-management agreements, with a focus on fostering community-based arrangements.

The celebrating ceremonies of the World Fisheries Day welcomed Lídia Cardoso, the Minister of Sea, Inland Waters and Fisheries, along with Eduardo Mussanhane, the Governor of Inhambane Province: their participation underscored the importance of collaboration in promoting sustainable fisheries in Mozambique. Other attendees included senior officials from the central, provincial, and district governments, representatives from Vilankulo Municipality Council, and organizations dedicated to nature conservation, with support provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization. In total, around 1 000 people attended, showcasing strong community involvement.

The Fisheries Co-management Agreement was supported by the FAO Smart Fisheries Co-management Project (SFC), funded by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of the Republic of Korea. Since its inception in Mozambique in 2022, the project strongly focused on promoting sustainable fisheries through capacity building, revitalization of Community Fisheries Councils (CCPs), and encouraging ecosystem-based fisheries management practices. The project aligns with Mozambique’s broader maritime governance framework, which emphasizes community engagement in fisheries management. This agreement marked the 15^th such partnership in Mozambique, contributing to the nationwide goal of managing fisheries through 1 637 CCPs. During the celebration, each CCP received a copy of the signed agreement.

As part of the celebrations for the World Fisheries Day, prizes were awarded for the best swimmer, best sailing regatta participant, and the most exemplary CCP and fish farmer. In addition, materials for the rehabilitation of fishing vessels were donated to CCPs that were affected by cyclone Filipo, earlier this year.

Next Steps

While the signing of the agreement marks a significant milestone, its effective implementation will require continued efforts. Key priorities include ensuring that CCP members fully understand the agreement’s provisions, supported by targeted training programs led by ADNAP. Additionally, building the capacity of newly elected CCP board members is essential for enabling effective governance and decision-making.

The Fisheries Co-management Agreement represents a pivotal step forward in advancing inclusive and sustainable fisheries governance in Mozambique. This collaborative model aligns with global efforts to protect healthy marine ecosystems and ensure the sustainability of fish stocks for future generations.