NGO's in exchange visit to share best fisheries practices
Two non-governmental organizations involved in implementing the "Restoring Fisheries for Sustainable Livelihoods" project in Malawi are conducting an exchange visit to share insights on best practices
MANGOCHI, Malawi (Planet Defence) - In a collaborative effort to restore fisheries for sustainable livelihoods along the shores of Lake Malawi, Community Initiative for Self Reliance (CISER) welcomed counterparts from Find Your Feet (FYF), a local non-governmental organization based in Mzuzu writes Elijah Katantha.
The purpose of the visit was to provide FYF team with insight into the initiatives of Local Fisheries Management Authorities (LFMAs), such as Beach Village Committees (BVCs), Sub Fisheries Associations (Sub FAs), and Fisheries Associations (FAs) in Mangochi, in conserving fisheries resources in alignment with the goals and objectives of the REFRESH Project.
CISER facilitated a visit to Nkhudzi Bay BVC, where the committee shared their collaborative efforts in conserving fisheries biodiversity within their jurisdiction. Notably, there exists robust collaboration among lodge owners, fishing communities, traditional leaders, and other community development groups such as the Village Development Committee (VDC) and Community Police Forum.
Moreover, the committee is actively engaged in law enforcement to prevent the use of illegal fishing gears. They also manage a fish sanctuary established and operated by the community. These efforts have resulted in visible improvements, with fish now abundant along the lake shores. Additionally, the committee demonstrates commendable financial sustainability, generating income from various sources to support its activities.
Subsequently, the visitors were taken to Malembo Beach, where they interacted with members of the Chilimba BVC and boat owners. The discussion primarily focused on the implementation of the Boat Identification Scheme in the area. To date, 62 boats have been marked in Mangochi district, with 32 boats marked by fishers at Malembo Beach.
The REFRESH Project, supported by the Department of Fisheries, is facilitating the implementation of the boat identification scheme. This initiative aims to combat illegal fishing practices, facilitate boat identification in emergencies, and ensure compliance with marine rules and regulations.
Find Your Feet is spearheading the REFRESH Project in Karonga, Rumphi, and Likoma districts, while CISER is driving implementation efforts in Mangochi district. These initiatives are made possible through funding from USAID, administered by Pact Malawi.
This collaborative endeavor underscores the collective commitment towards restoring and conserving fisheries resources for the sustainable livelihoods of communities along the shores of Lake Malawi.
This partnership aims to encapsulate the essence of the collaboration between CISER and FYF in restoring fisheries and fostering sustainable livelihoods, while also highlighting specific initiatives and achievements discussed during the visit.