Government Launches $25 Million Project To Safeguard Fisheries From Climate Change In The Gambia
The Gambia government has yesterday taken a step in protecting its fisheries sector from the impacts of climate change with the launch of a $25 million project. The Climate Resilient Fishery Initiative for Livelihood Improvement Project (PROREFISH) aims to enhance adaptation, mitigation, and reduction of climate-related risks faced by the fisheries sector.
During the event, Minister of Fisheries Musa Drammeh shed light on the numerous challenges that The Gambia’s fisheries sector is currently facing as a result of climate change impacts. One of the major concerns highlighted was the threat to the livelihoods of the poor fisher folk. In response to these challenges, the minister announced the introduction of the Fish Green Climate Fund project, which will specifically focus on the fisheries sector.
Following the minister’s speech, the FAO country representative, Moshibudi Rampedi, also expressed her concerns regarding the impact of climate change on The Gambia’s fisheries sector. She pointed out that both marine coastal and riverine fisheries are being affected, leading to hindrances in livelihoods and economic development.
Rampedi further highlighted the increasing salinity and acidity levels, are negatively impacting the range and availability of fish species.To address these challenges, Rampedi stressed the need to invest in fisheries infrastructure and ecosystems. She emphasized that such investments are crucial for the broader attainment of the green recovery-focused national development plan outcomes and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Dawda Foday Saine, the secretary of the National Association of Artisanal Fisheries Operators (Naafo), also shared his perspective on the issue. He acknowledged that the members of Naafo understands the importance of nurturing and protecting the fisheries resources on which they depend for their livelihoods.
Saine highlighted the various threats that the sea is currently facing, including overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, unsustainable coastal development, increased mining activities along the coastal area, ocean warming, and acidification.
