By Modou Kanteh
The Gambian government Friday validated a document aimed at strengthening the Platform of Non-State Actors of Fisheries and Aquaculture (PONSAFAG).
The validation was done with support from the UNIDO GEF 6 CCA Gambia Fisheries Project. The validation workshop coordinated by the Department of Fisheries, formed part of efforts to support and enhance coordination within the fisheries sector.
Speaking at the opening of the workshop, Deputy Director of Fisheries Dr. Salum Jatta says PONSAFAG serves as an umbrella body for key stakeholders and actors across the fisheries value chain.
He says one of the organization’s key roles is to advocate for improved livelihoods and coordinate the activities of professional associations in the sector to ensure sustainable fisheries management in The Gambia.
Dr. Jatta said strengthening PONSAFAG would promote unity among fisheries associations and improve coordination in decision-making processes.
“Today, we gather not only as professionals and stakeholders but as custodians of one of our nation’s most vital resources,” he remarked.
He further stresses that the fisheries sector plays a critical role in food and nutritional security, describing it as the second-largest food provider after agriculture and livestock, and a major source of animal protein for most Gambians.
According to him, the sector is also an important entry point for poverty reduction, as well as a source of government revenue and foreign exchange earnings.
Dr. Jatta also commended the Global Environment Facility for supporting the initiative through funding provided to the government via the Ministry of Fisheries and National Assembly Matters.
Vice President of PONSAFAG, Omar Gaye, welcomed the initiative, saying the document would strengthen the organization’s work and improve the fisheries sector as a whole.