YAOUNDE, Cameroon (BG) – The African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) has reiterated the importance of innovative policies to strengthen sustainable fisheries and aquaculture across Africa.

The call was made during the 15th Malabo Montpellier Forum, held on 30 January, where AU-IBAR officials discussed “Fish-Friendly: Policy Innovations for Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa”.

According to a statement issued on Friday, AU-IBAR Director Dr Huyam Salih highlighted the agency’s achievements in implementing the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture (PFRS) since its adoption in 2014.

Salih highlighted AU-IBAR’s experience and lessons learned in implementing the PFRS since its adoption in 2014.

The statement also outlined the sector’s challenges, including inadequate data collection, insufficient funding and limited human resources.

It also emphasised that “addressing the root causes of overfishing, habitat degradation and pollution” is crucial for sustainable growth.

The role of women in fisheries

Salih stressed the importance of women in the development of fisheries and aquaculture, highlighting their contribution to the growth and sustainability of the sector, according to the statement.

The Malabo Montpellier Forum, co-chaired by Hailemariam Dessalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, and Dr Assia Ben Salah Alaoui, Ambassador at Large to His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco, reviewed successful strategies in Ghana, Malawi, Morocco and Mozambique.

The meeting aligns with Africa’s post-Malabo strategy for the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) (2026-2035) and the African Blue Economy Strategy, underlining the urgency for action.

AU-IBAR reaffirmed its commitment to supporting sustainable fisheries through collaborative efforts and smart investments to ensure long-term viability.