The great unknown, the new frontier: our world’s oceans may be a mystery to us, but they’re the source of livelihoods of many fishermen (and women) around the world. This World Fisheries Day, we invite you to take a deep dive into how this ancient trade is adapting to the modern conditions that are affecting the (ultra)marine glue that holds the people of our planet together.
The sea is the future: expanding coastal and marine protection in the Philippines
The story of Quirsito ‘Bok’ Cajegas, a self-described illegal fisher who reformed into a proud marine conservationist and chairman of the Bato-Tagaytay Reef Fish Sanctuary in the Philippines. Read more about the sanctuary, part of a network of marine protected areas (MPAs) financed by the GEF.
In Djirnda people are desperate to go back to fishing
“Now, they can hardly take it anymore.” Elhadj Issakha Sarr, a 52-year-old fisherman and trader, describes the universal human response to the pandemic in the unique context of his own community in Djirnda, Senegal, which has been brought to its knees by measures taken by Senegalese authorities. Learn about the “Household Food Basket” initiative bridging the gap between producers and food insecure households that has been widened by COVID-19 restrictions.
Innovative technologies strengthen the monitoring of fishing operations at sea
Riding the electromagnetic waves: in Ghana and Fiji, two countries where tuna is important to the livelihoods of many people, fleets have been equipped with electronic monitoring systems as part of the GEF-funded Common Oceans ABNJ Tuna Project to help increase transparency.
New fishing site, terminal in Liberia brings better fish and more jobs
In Liberia, the rainy season lasts about half a year, making preservation facilities critical for artisanal fishing communities. In recent years, the fisheries and harvesters of Robertsport have requested World Bank support for infrastructure that would help them process and market their fish in 21st century conditions, leading to the opening of the Mesurado Fisheries Terminal. Read more about what has been called a major boost to the Liberia fisheries sector.
Incentivizing sustainable fishing through certification
How well do you know your SDGs? Quick, which one is dedicated to oceans? The CEO of the Marine Stewardship Council talks about the importance of certifying large chains like McDonalds and Tesco to achieving Goal 14.4 — to conserve and sustainably use the oceans.
