By Modou Kanteh
Marine scientists from Senegal, European Union and The Gambia are in Banjul for a five-day meeting.
According to officials, the tripartite meeting is aimed at reviewing the 2022-2023 fishing activities, update on the situation of the live bait, ecosystem approaches to fisheries management among other issues.
In her statement at the official opening ceremony, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Fisheries, Water Resources and National Assembly Matters, Madam Fanta BS Manneh said meeting of such nature is paramount for the improvement of the marine resources in the sub-region. She said The Gambia government is ever ready to contribute its quota in protecting the marine resources.
She applauded the organisers for choosing Banjul to host such an important scientific event.
Madam Anna Mbenga Cham, Director of Fisheries, said the gathering is not just the confluence on expertise and knowledge, but a confluence on shared responsibilities for the sustainable management of fisheries.
“The approach will not only be scientific but rather collective recognition that sustainable fisheries management requires joint efforts. The results of our deliberations will not only shape policies but will also have a tangible impact on the livelihoods of our coastal communities and the health of our marine ecosystems.”
The fisheries director is hopeful that with the caliber of scientists attending the meeting, there would be significant strides toward ensuring the sustainability of fisheries for the future generations.