World Fisheries Day, celebrated every year on 21 November, is usually a moment to honour the oceans that feed millions. But this year, celebration gave way to concern.
Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is escalating at an alarming rate. Globally, it is estimated that 1 in every 5 fish now comes from IUU activities. In Africa specifically, up to 40% of fish caught in some regions may be illegal, and costs the continent more than 9 billion dollars each year.
The consequences are devastating: collapsing fish stocks, threatened food security, and weakened coastal economies that rely heavily on healthy oceans.
The Oudtshoorn Courant recently spotlighted our concerns and outlined practical steps the public can take to help turn the tide. They encouraged consumers to:
- Know where their seafood comes from, how it was caught, and which species are sustainable.
- Make informed, sustainable purchases that support healthy oceans and discourage illegal fishing.
- Protect marine habitats by recycling responsibly.
- Urge local retailers to source and stock responsibly harvested seafood.
Peter Knights OBE, Wild Africa CEO says, “World Fisheries Day highlights the collective responsibility shared across the seafood supply chain. By working together, we can protect our oceanic ecosystems and ensure Africa’s coastal communities thrive for years to come. Because protecting nature protects us all.”
Read the full story here: https://www.oudtshoorncourant.com/News/Article/National-News/world-fisheries-day-time-to-turn-the-tide-on-illegal-fishing-202511201114
