Introduction

The fishing sector is a cornerstone of Senegal's economy, providing livelihoods for thousands and contributing significantly to food security and export revenues. To ensure the sustainable management of marine resources, a robust legislative and regulatory framework is essential. This framework encompasses national laws, international agreements, and local governance structures that collectively aim to promote responsible fishing practices, protect marine biodiversity, and ensure equitable access to resources.

Key Legislative Acts

1. The Fishing Code of 2006: This code serves as the foundation for Senegal's fishing legislation. It outlines the principles for sustainable fishing, establishes regulations for commercial and artisanal fisheries, and details licensing requirements. The code emphasizes the importance of preserving marine ecosystems and the need for management plans based on scientific assessments.

2. The Law on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Enacted to establish and manage MPAs, this law aims to conserve critical habitats and biodiversity. It provides the legal basis for designating protected zones, regulating activities within these areas, and implementing conservation measures that align with international standards.

3. The 2015 Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy: This policy framework outlines strategic objectives for the development of the fisheries sector, focusing on sustainability, community involvement, and improved governance. It promotes the integration of fishery resources management with broader environmental and socioeconomic goals.

Regulatory Bodies

The regulation of the fishing sector in Senegal is overseen by several key institutions:

• Ministry of Fisheries and Maritime Economy: This ministry is responsible for formulating policies, enforcing regulations, and ensuring sustainable management of marine resources.

• Fisheries Protection and Surveillance Directorate (DPSP): This body implements monitoring, control, and surveillance activities to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It plays a critical role in enforcing compliance with fishing regulations and managing licensing.

• Local Artisanal Fishing Councils (CLPAs): These councils operate at the community level, facilitating local governance and sustainable practices. They work to empower local fishermen, ensure participation in decision-making, and address local needs and challenges.

International Agreements

Senegal is a signatory to various international agreements that shape its fishing policies:

• The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): This convention establishes guidelines for the use of the world's oceans and marine resources, emphasizing the rights and responsibilities of coastal states.

• Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs): Senegal participates in regional agreements aimed at managing shared fish stocks, such as the Sub-Regional Fisheries Commission (SRFC), which fosters collaboration among West African nations.

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Senegal is committed to the SDGs, particularly Goal 14, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. This commitment influences national legislation and regulatory measures.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Senegal has taken significant steps to enhance its legislative framework:

1. Adoption of a New Fisheries Code (2023): Responding to emerging challenges, a revised fisheries code was introduced to strengthen regulations against IUU fishing, enhance stakeholder participation, and promote the conservation of vulnerable species.

2. Strengthening Enforcement Mechanisms: Increased funding and resources have been allocated to the DPSP to improve monitoring and surveillance capabilities, including the use of technology such as satellite tracking to combat IUU fishing.

3. Community Engagement Initiatives: Recent initiatives aim to strengthen the role of CLPAs, enhancing their capacity to manage local fisheries sustainably. Training programs and workshops are being organized to empower community leaders and fishermen.

Decrees on fisheries management

• Decree No. 2016-90 approving the Development Plan for the Octopus Fishery (Octopus vulgaris)

• Decree No. 2017-594 approving the development plans for white shrimp (Penaeus notialis) and volutes (Cymbium spp,) fisheries

• Development plan for the deep shrimp fishery (Parapenaeus longirostris and Aristeus varidens)

Conclusion

Senegal's legislative and regulatory framework for sea fishing is a dynamic and evolving system that seeks to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. The ongoing commitment to improve governance, engage local communities, and adhere to international standards is essential for the long-term health of Senegal’s marine resources. As challenges such as climate change and overfishing persist, a robust legal framework, supported by effective enforcement and community involvement, will be critical in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of the fishing sector in Senegal.