Industrial Fishing Licenses

The exercise of industrial fishing in maritime waters under Senegalese jurisdiction requires a valid fishing license, issued by the Minister in charge of fisheries after consultation with the awarding advisory committee. There are four categories of industrial fishing licenses issued, each with specific options.

Fishing Gear

The fishing gear and minimum mesh sizes authorized for maritime fishing, including industrial fishing, are established by the maritime fishing code decree of 1998. The decree outlines rules for gillnets used in artisanal fishing and regulates newer types of nets, such as filtering and sleeping nets. Significant changes have occurred over time, including an increase in mesh size from 1976 to 2015, aimed at protecting juvenile fish, reducing discards at sea, and capturing higher-value commercial fish.

Underwater Fishing

Initially practiced as a non-profit boating activity, underwater fishing has evolved into a rapidly growing commercial profession. The regulation, originally decreed in 1967 (Decree No. 67-386), required participants to declare their activities to the maritime registration administration or join an underwater hunters association. The 2002 Merchant Marine Code specifies that spearfishing is only authorized in the coastal zone of the Dakar region.

Sea Fishing Agreements

Cooperation in fisheries can involve surveillance or stock management and may include participation in regional fishing organizations or shared monitoring procedures. Senegal has signed several bilateral and multilateral fishing agreements with international, regional, and sub-regional institutions.

Table summarizing the latest fishing agreements and trends in Senegal, including key details and impacts

Latest Updates on International, Regional, and Sub-regional Institutions in Sea Fishing Linked with Senegal

Senegal is actively engaged with several international, regional, and sub-regional institutions to promote sustainable fishing practices and enhance the governance of marine resources. Here are the latest updates:

1. Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs)

   • International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT): ICCAT is a key organization that Senegal collaborates with to manage tuna and tuna-like species in the Atlantic Ocean. It employs tools like catch limits and monitoring to ensure sustainable fishing【22†source】.

   • Fishery Committee for the Eastern Central Atlantic (CECAF): CECAF promotes sustainable utilization of marine resources within its area of competence, focusing on research, data collection, and regulatory measures. Recent activities include the assessment of small pelagic fish off Northwest Africa【24†source】.

2. World Bank Initiatives

   • West Africa Regional Fisheries Program (WARF-P): This program, supported by the World Bank, covers coastal West Africa, including Senegal, focusing on sustainable use of marine resources and improved governance. The program aims to rebuild fish stocks and enhance economic benefits【23†source】.

   • South West Indian Ocean Fisheries Governance and Shared Growth Program (SWIOFish): Although primarily focused on East Africa, this program also provides valuable lessons and frameworks that can be applied to West African fisheries management, including those in Senegal【23†source】.

3. European Union (EU) Cooperation

   • The EU plays a significant role in various RFMOs and supports sustainable fisheries management globally. Recent agreements and meetings, such as the EU's involvement in the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO), highlight their commitment to sustainable practices that Senegal can benefit from through collaborative efforts and shared knowledge【22†source】.

4. African Union (AU) Initiatives

   • Africa Program for Fisheries (APF): The AU, through the APF, is committed to investing in sustainable fisheries to improve the livelihoods of coastal communities. This program aligns with Senegal's goals of enhancing food security and economic stability through better fisheries management【23†source】.

5. National and Sub-regional Efforts

   • Senegal continues to work with neighboring countries and sub-regional organizations to tackle issues such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which is a significant problem in West Africa. Collaborative surveillance and enforcement efforts are ongoing to address these challenges and improve the sustainability of the fisheries sector【24†source】.

These institutions and initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to managing marine resources sustainably, with a strong emphasis on international cooperation, scientific research, and regulatory measures. This integrated strategy is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of Senegal's fisheries and the well-being of its coastal communities.

Updated Information and Trends

Sustainable Fishing Practices

Recent years have seen a global shift towards more sustainable fishing practices. Senegal has adopted several measures to align with these trends, including:

1. Quota Systems: Implementing quota systems to prevent overfishing and ensure long-term sustainability of fish stocks.

2. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Expanding MPAs to protect critical habitats and biodiversity.

3. Bycatch Reduction: Promoting the use of bycatch reduction devices and practices to minimize the capture of non-target species.

Technological Advancements

Technological advancements are transforming the fishing industry, including:

1. Satellite Monitoring: Use of satellite technology for real-time tracking of fishing vessels to ensure compliance with regulations.

2. Blockchain Technology: Enhancing traceability in the supply chain through blockchain, which helps combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

3. Eco-Friendly Gear: Development and adoption of eco-friendly fishing gear that reduces environmental impact.

Economic Impact

The fishery sector is vital for Senegal's economy, contributing significantly to employment and export revenue. Latest data indicate:

1. Contribution to GDP: The fishery sector contributes approximately 3.2% to Senegal’s GDP.

2. Employment: The industry provides jobs for over 600,000 people, including direct and indirect employment.

3. Export Revenue: Fish and seafood exports generate significant revenue, with the European Union and Asian markets being major destinations.

Climate Change Adaptation

Climate change poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and fishery resources. Senegal is taking proactive steps to adapt to these changes:

1. Research and Monitoring: Increasing investment in research and monitoring to understand climate impacts on marine life.

2. Adaptive Management: Implementing adaptive management strategies to ensure resilient fishery practices.

3. Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in climate adaptation initiatives to enhance their resilience and ensure sustainable livelihoods.

Conclusion

Senegal's fishery sector is adapting to modern trends and challenges through sustainable practices, technological advancements, and proactive climate change adaptation. These efforts aim to secure long-term economic benefits, environmental sustainability, and social well-being for communities dependent on fishing. By continuing to innovate and collaborate on an international scale, Senegal can enhance its fishery resources' management and contribute to global sustainable development goals.