In Gambia, fishing isn’t just a job – it’s a way of life. For generations, fishermen have built their lives around the sea, relying on it for food and income. But now, overfishing is threatening this deep bond, putting both their livelihoods and the ocean’s health at risk. With fewer fish to catch, these communities are stuck in a tough spot, trying to preserve their traditions with the urgent need for sustainability.
The fishing industry has always been essential for coastal communities in Gambia. But things took a turn in 2017 when the government lifted a ban on industrial fishing, opening the doors for foreign companies. Soon after, Chinese investors set up fishmeal factories along the coast. At first, this seemed like a good thing – new jobs, a stronger economy, and more opportunities for locals. But the downside quickly became clear.
With industrial trawlers in the mix, local fishermen now face a harsh reality. Fish stocks are shrinking, forcing them to travel farther into the ocean just to find a decent catch. They’re also competing with massive foreign vessels equipped with modern technology, which makes fishing even harder for their small wooden boats. As the fish supply dwindles but demand stays high, prices have soared, putting even more pressure on the fishermen and their communities.
These fishmeal factories are being blamed for overfishing young fish and encouraging illegal practices. Local resources are running out fast, and fishermen are feeling the squeeze. Conflicts at sea have become more common, with foreign vessels violating the nine-nautical-mile zone meant for locals, often coming as close as five miles to the shore. They use unauthorized gear, damaging the nets of local fishermen, which are expensive to replace – especially on already tight incomes.
The Gambian navy struggles to enforce regulations due to limited resources, and offenders are rarely penalized. To boost local earnings, the government requires foreign vessels to hire 20 to 30% Gambian crew. This has caused tensions, with local fishermen targeting these local workers by burning or damaging their boats. More than 20 attacks involving explosives have been reported in the last two years, injuring many. Since 2010, at least 11 Gambians have died in maritime conflicts, while foreign crews often escape accountability.
With all these struggles piling up, many Gambian fishermen are being forced to leave behind their traditions. Some are selling their boats, unable to compete with industrial fishing. Others are turning to illegal migration, risking their lives on dangerous journeys across the Atlantic or Mediterranean in hopes of starting over in Europe. It’s a heartbreaking situation for communities that have always looked to the sea for their survival.
