Fish are caught, processed and traded daily across Africa – this results in Africans benefiting socially and economically from fisheries every day. But these benefits are neither reaching their potential nor are they being safeguarded for future generations. In short the way Africa fishes today is not the best way.
This fact has been vocalised over recent years by politicians, managers, fishers, the fishing industry and environmental groups – all these voices are calling for change.
In response to this the Partnership for African Fisheries was formed in 2009 to facilitate and support change and reform. The Partnership for African Fisheries although new is already a growing and dynamic group of strategic and financial partners committed to working together to realise a common vision – a vision where fish contribute significantly to African prosperity and growth.
African is changing the way it fishes – for good!
‘The Partnership for African Fisheries will enable the continent to draw our own lessons from our failures and achievements, and for us as Africans to take responsibility for replicating our success stories; to map out a path for sustainable governance of our fisheries; as well as guide our development partners to work with us on critical investment areas.’ Ambassador Willoughby, Acting Chief Executive Officer, NEPAD Secretariat.
Background
Today 10 million Africans work in fisheries. They may be catching, processing, transporting or selling fish or building boats, making nets, managing the fishery, or trading fish in the markets – whatever they do – they are earning their living because fish are being caught daily all over and all around Africa.
This work and these fish provide food - especially proteins and nutrients for 30% of Africans, including some of the poorest and most vulnerable people on the continent. It also provides 8% of the fish required to help satisfy the growing international market for fish and seafood - a trade that generates revenue of close to $5 billion for African economies each year.
|
