BOAT MARKING - Senior Chief Mphonde leads boat marking sensitization
The main objective was to increase awareness about a boat marking exercise, which was discussed during a session held on November 15th, led by the District Fisheries Officer and the marine department.
NKHOTA-KOTA, Malawi (Planet Defence) - Senior Chief Mphonde, a dedicated advocate for fisheries, orchestrated a meeting on Friday, November 17th, involving all Group Village Headmen and Village Headmen within his jurisdiction writes Andrew Salapa from the Lake shore district.
The primary aim was to create awareness about a boat marking exercise, a topic briefed during a session on November 15th led by the District Fisheries Officer and the marine department.
This initiative received support from the USAID Restoring Fisheries for Sustainable Fisheries Resources in Lake Malawi (REFRESH) funded project.
The training program led by Senior Chief Mphonde emphasizes crucial advocacy topics essential for successful fisheries conservation. These encompass enforcement mechanisms, combating illegal fishing gear, and implementing effective by-laws.
Senior Chief Mphonde, instrumental in advancing fisheries-oriented activities, particularly in identifying fishing and transport boats through registration and marking, highlighted the significance:
“Boat marking facilitates easy identification during accidents by checking the color code to establish the boat's origin. It also aids in identifying boats not compliant with transportation or fishing regulations by checking their color codes,” stressed Mphonde.
He further explained that while different Traditional Authorities (T.A.’s) have chosen varied colors for their territories, the designated color code for his jurisdiction is red, distinct from the district's black color code.
All chiefs welcomed and supported the concept, collectively agreeing on strategies for implementing the boat marking exercise.
Andrew Salapa, a technician with the USAID-funded REFRESH at Nkhota-Kota, attended the meeting.
The Fisheries Champions Training Program is an extensive initiative aimed at equipping individuals from the 8 lakeshore districts of Lake Malawi with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to advocate for sustainable fisheries management.