The 8th OACPS meet in Dar: Prioritising small-scale fisheries
THE 8th Meeting of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) in Dar es Salaam on 9-11 September 2024, marked a critical juncture for the sustainable development of oceans, fisheries, and aquaculture in the region.
The meeting’s focus on reviewing the implementation progress of the 7th Meeting’s outcomes, particularly concerning small-scale fisheries (SSF), underscores the pivotal role of these fisheries in the economic and social well-being of OACPS member states.
Small-scale fisheries, despite their significant contribution to the economy and food security, face numerous challenges, including overfishing, pollution, climate change and limited access to markets and resources.
To address these challenges, the OACPS must adopt a comprehensive approach that priorities sustainable resource management, collaborative governance, and enhanced stewardship.
One of the key areas for action is tailored governance.
The OACPS should support the development of governance frameworks that are appropriate to the specific needs and circumstances of different SSF communities.
This may involve strengthening local fisheries management bodies, promoting participatory decision-making, and ensuring that SSF communities have a voice in policymaking.
A pivotal aspect of effective governance is co management. By fostering collaboration between governments, fishing communities, and other stakeholders, the OACPS can develop more equitable and sustain able fisheries management plans.
Collaborative co management can also help to build trust and strengthen social cohesion within fish ing communities.
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Another crucial aspect is enhanced stewardship and rights.
SSF communities should have clear rights and responsibilities regarding the management of marine resources.
By recognising and protecting these rights, the OACPS can empower fishing communities to play a more active role in conserving marine ecosystems and ensuring their long-term sustainability.
In addition to governance and stewardship, the OACPS must also address the challenges posed by climate change.
Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and changes in ocean currents are already affecting marine ecosystems and the species that depend on them.
The OACPS should invest in climate adaptation measures, such as developing early warning systems for extreme weather events and promoting climate-resilient fisheries and aqua culture practices.
To further enhance the sustainability of SSF, the OACPS should promote value chain development.
By supporting activities such as processing, marketing, and distribution, the OACPS can help SSF communities to capture a greater share of the value generated by their products.
This can contribute to improved livelihoods and increased economic benefits for fishing communities.
Moreover, the OACPS must address the issue of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
IUU fishing poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and undermines the livelihoods of legitimate fishers.
The OACPS should strengthen its efforts to combat IUU fishing through improved monitoring, control, and surveillance, as well as international cooperation.
Finally, the OACPS should promote gender equality in the fisheries sector.
Women play a crucial role in SSF, but they often face discrimination and limited access to resources.
The OACPS should support initiatives that empower women in the fisheries sector and ensure their equal participation in decision-making processes.
In conclusion, the 8th Meeting of the OACPS in Dar es Salaam provides a critical opportunity for the region to accelerate action for sustainable and resilient small-scale fisheries.
By prioritising tailored governance, collaborative co-management, enhanced stewardship, climate adaptation, value chain development, and gender equality, the OACPS can help to ensure the long-term viability of SSF and the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on them.
