Africa faces depletion of its marine fisheries resources[L’Afrique face à l’épuisement de ses ressources de la pêche maritime]

Africa faces depletion of its marine fisheries resources. The role of the fisheries sector in feeding the African continent is considerable: 22% of available animal protein comes from marine and freshwater products, and more than 50% in some African countries, particularly in North and West Africa. Fisheries and related activities not only provide food, but also jobs for 12 million people, and generate income for governments and communities alike. But the outlook is pessimistic. Overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and the poorly controlled exploitation of fish stocks by export-oriented meal and oil industries are leaving heavy consequences in their wake. How can we reverse these trends? By adopting a sovereign and sustainable fisheries policy that addresses two main concerns: 1/ respecting a level of catches at sea that is compatible with the reproductive needs of fish stocks; 2/ imposing sufficient landings for processing to ensure the best possible local and regional food supply.