By: Binta Jaiteh
President Adama Barrow has revealed that his government is currently conducting a comprehensive review of the fisheries laws and aquaculture regulations to strengthen enforcement and combat illegal fishing.
He added that the review will modernize fisheries laws, strengthen enforcement and combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
“The fisheries sector is another important source of revenue for the government and food for the population. In 2024, revenue collected from fishing licenses, fines, landing fees, and permits exceeded one hundred and forty- two million Dalasi’s (GMD142 million), with an additional outstanding eighty-eight million dalasi due for collection. This will address the primary challenges in Fisheries sector, “he explained.
Through the European Union Sector Support Programme, fisheries co-management is being expanded in the North Bank Region (NBR) to support twenty-one (21) oyster harvesting communities, President Barrow revealed this will ensure sustainable management of oyster resources and greater economic empowerment for coastal communities. “Under the same programme, two additional fish landing platforms are being constructed in Kartong and Sanyang.”
His Excellency said in order to support rural fishing communities, the Government distributed twenty well-equipped fishing Boats in January 2025. “We are bent on optimizing opportunities in the fisheries sector through laws, expanded programmes, improved aquaculture infrastructure and strengthened trans-boundary water cooperation.”
He emphasized that the government remains steadfast in protecting the environment, strengthening climate resilience, and ensuring sustainable natural resource management. Through robust policy reforms, enhanced disaster preparedness, and expanded conservation programmes, we will continue to build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable society, as enshrined in the Banjul Declaration (1977),” he remarked.
He urged Gambians to remain steadfast in our collective mission to build a better nation. “Let us work together across all odds and social divides to initiate success, embrace inclusivity, and nurture the youth.
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