By Modou Kanteh
Marine scientists from Senegal, the European Union, and The Gambia are gathering in Banjul for a five-day meeting.
According to officials, the tripartite meeting is aimed at reviewing the 2022-2023 fishing activities, updates on the situation of the live bait, and 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 B.S Manneh said a 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 to protecting marine resources.
The deputy permanent secretary applauded the organizers for choosing Banjul to host such an important scientific event.
Madam Anna Mbenga Cham; Director of Fisheries said the gathering is not just a confluence of expertise and knowledge but a confluence of shared responsibilities for the sustainable management of fisheries.
She said: “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 future generations