The research, conducted in the coastal fishing communities of Gunjur, Sanyang and Tanji, found that local fisherfolk possess extensive knowledge of fish behaviour, breeding seasons, migration patterns and changes in marine ecosystems knowledge that could complement scientific research and strengthen conservation efforts.
The fisheries sector remains one of The Gambia’s most important economic pillars, providing food, employment and income for thousands of people while supplying affordable protein to households nationwide. However, increasing pressure on marine resources, climate change, illegal fishing and unsustainable harvesting practices continue to threaten the sector’s future.
The study surveyed 131 participants, including fishers, fish traders, processors and other fisheries stakeholders, through interviews, questionnaires and field observations. It sought to assess local understanding of sustainable fishing and examine how traditional knowledge could support fisheries governance.
Researchers found that most respondents were well aware of the need to protect fish stocks, avoid destructive fishing methods and preserve marine habitats for future generations. This knowledge, developed through decades of interaction with the sea and passed down across generations, was identified as a valuable yet underutilised resource.
The report argues that recognising Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) within national fisheries policies would improve decision-making and encourage greater compliance with conservation measures. It notes that communities with a direct stake in marine resources are often best placed to monitor changes in fish populations and environmental conditions.
Despite this awareness, the study identified several obstacles preventing the widespread adoption of sustainable fishing practices. Chief among them are economic pressures, with many fisherfolk relying on daily catches to meet household needs, making long-term conservation difficult to prioritise over immediate income.
Poor infrastructure also remains a major challenge. Limited access to cold storage facilities, ice plants and modern fish processing equipment contributes to post-harvest losses, reducing profits for fishing communities and undermining the sector’s growth.
The research further highlighted the need for continuous training on fisheries regulations, climate change, ecosystem conservation and responsible fishing techniques to strengthen community participation in resource management.
Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing also emerged as a significant concern. Respondents warned that the use of prohibited fishing gear and failure to comply with regulations continue to deplete fish stocks and threaten marine biodiversity.
The study recommends strengthening community-based fisheries governance through existing Community Fisheries Centres (CFCs) and Centre Management Committees (CMCs), while promoting closer collaboration between government institutions, researchers and fishing communities.
It concludes that fisherfolk should be recognised not merely as resource users but as essential partners in fisheries management. By investing in infrastructure, expanding education programmes and incorporating local knowledge into policy decisions, The Gambia can build a more resilient fisheries sector capable of supporting food security, economic growth and environmental conservation for generations to come.
