By Binta Jaiteh
Environmental organisation Greenpeace Africa has launched an initiative dubbed “Sentinels of the Sea” aimed at exposing harmful fishing practices in West Africa.
The campaign also involves the visit of Greenpeace Vessel aimed at strengthening ocean protection efforts in The Gambia, Senegal and the wider West African region.
Speaking at the launch held on Thursday at the Gambia Ports Authority premises, Greenpeace Africa Communications Director Fadima Cissé said the ocean plays a critical role in sustaining livelihoods, culture and economic activity in coastal communities.
“The sea feeds families, creates jobs and carries history and culture. For coastal communities, the ocean is not a theory — it is food on the table and dignity at work,” she said.
Cissé noted that the mission connects local coastal realities with global policy discussions, stressing the need for stronger protections for marine ecosystems.
She warned that across West Africa, communities are reporting declining fish stocks, rising living costs and increasing threats to livelihoods.
“This is not nature failing us; it is people failing the ocean. Industrial and illegal fishing are emptying our waters faster than they can recover. What happens beyond the horizon affects whether a fisher’s net is full or empty the next morning,” she added.
Captain Mike Finchen, who commands the Greenpeace vessel involved in the expedition, described the visit as a historic moment, noting that it marks the first time a Greenpeace ship has docked in The Gambia.
He explained that the vessel, originally built decades ago for hunting purposes, was later transformed into an environmental campaign ship and had served Greenpeace missions for more than 30 years.
Finchen says Greenpeace aims to inspire global action to protect the oceans and secure a sustainable future for coming generations.
Also speaking at the event, Abas Saidykhan, Registrar of Ships at the Gambia Maritime Administration, highlighted the agency’s role in regulating maritime activities to ensure safety, legality and environmental protection.
“We monitor and regulate maritime operations to ensure compliance with international standards, including ship registration, safety requirements and environmental protection measures,” he said, adding that while the agency did not control fishing resources, it ensured vessels operated safely and responsibly.
Across Senegal and The Gambia, millions of people depend on fish as a primary source of food and income. However, coastal communities are increasingly facing declining catches, rising costs and growing pressure from under-regulated industrial fishing activities.
