Faced with a persistent crisis in the fisheries sector, Senegal's new President Bassirou Diomaye Faye is launching a series of initiatives aimed at protecting small-scale fishing and ensuring the sustainable exploitation of marine resources. Two days after the publication of the list of boats authorised to fish by the Senegalese Fisheries Ministry, the Head of State called for an audit of the sector and an evaluation of fishing agreements with foreign countries at a meeting of the Council of Ministers on 8 May 2024.
The fisheries sector, which is vital to Senegal’s economy and livelihoods, is experiencing growing difficulties, including dwindling fish stocks and illegal fishing practices. Against this backdrop, President Faye has taken decisive steps to address these challenges, including an audit of the Senegalese flag and an evaluation of fisheries agreements, including those with the European Union (EU).
Protecting small-scale fishing and combating illegal practices
Senegal’s strongman recognises the importance of small-scale fishing, which employs more than 600,000 Senegalese, in preserving local livelihoods. The request for an audit of the Senegalese flag is aimed at identifying and correcting any irregularities in the registration of vessels, including suspicions of nominees. In addition, strengthening measures to combat illegal fishing activities is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of fisheries resources and protecting the interests of small-scale fishermen.
Evaluation of fisheries agreements with the European Union and other partners
Senegal has several fisheries agreements with foreign partners, including the European Union. These agreements are currently being evaluated to determine whether they are in line with national interests and whether they contribute to the preservation of fisheries resources. President Faye insists on transparency and accountability in the management of these agreements, stressing the importance of ensuring that Senegal’s interests are fully taken into account in future negotiations.
In addition to control and surveillance measures, the government is committed to supporting the development of small-scale fishing. An emergency programme to revive small-scale fishing and develop industrial fishing will be put in place to build local capacity and stimulate economic growth in the fisheries sector.
Outlook for the future
The reform of the fisheries sector represents a crucial step towards ensuring the sustainability of Senegal’s fisheries resources. By adopting a proactive and transparent approach, the Senegalese President is demonstrating his commitment to preserving the marine ecosystem and the well-being of fishing-dependent communities. As the country prepares to renegotiate its fisheries agreements, it is essential to place sustainability and social justice at the heart of these discussions to ensure a prosperous future for all stakeholders in Senegal’s fisheries sector.
Boris Ngounou
