In a landmark move towards regional cooperation and marine resource sustainability, Senegal and Guinea have signed a new implementation protocol to strengthen their bilateral agreement on maritime fisheries and aquaculture. The signing ceremony, held in Dakar, marks a renewed commitment to safeguarding the blue economy and improving the livelihoods of coastal communities in both countries.
The agreement was formalized by Dr. Fatou Diouf, Senegal’s Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Economy, and her Guinean counterpart, Mrs. Fatima Camara, in a ceremony that underscored the shared vision of the two nations. “This protocol is built on trust, solidarity, and a common vision for the sustainable management of our marine resources,” Dr. Diouf stated, calling the event a milestone for regional collaboration.
The new protocol lays the foundation for structured, regulated cooperation between the two countries, addressing key challenges facing West Africa’s fisheries. It includes:
- Regulatory oversight of fishing activities in both artisanal and industrial sectors;
- Joint maritime surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), with a focus on curbing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing;
- Support for coastal communities, including fisherfolk and aquaculture practitioners;
- Capacity building through technical training, research collaboration, and knowledge exchange;
- Enhanced sanitary control and inspection systems for fishery products to improve food safety and market access.
This cooperation also integrates environmental protection and socioeconomic development goals, recognizing the critical role of healthy marine ecosystems in ensuring food security and economic resilience.
Both countries face growing pressure on marine ecosystems due to overfishing, climate change, and illegal fishing practices. These threats not only endanger biodiversity but also undermine the livelihoods of millions who depend on fisheries.
Through this protocol, Senegal and Guinea seek to position themselves as leaders in sustainable fisheries governance in West Africa, aligning with international commitments such as the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and the African Union’s Blue Economy Strategy.
Dr. Diouf emphasized that this agreement reflects a long-term vision: “We are committed to jointly promoting aquaculture and enhancing the value of our marine resources for the benefit of our respective populations. It is a partnership anchored in sustainability, inclusion, and science.”
The protocol is expected to lead to concrete joint actions in the coming months, including:
- Deployment of mixed patrol teams for EEZ monitoring;
- Implementation of harmonized licensing procedures;
- Support for women and youth in fisheries value chains;
- Development of joint aquaculture pilot projects;
- Regional advocacy for better governance of shared marine resources.
With this accord, Senegal and Guinea are setting a precedent for cooperative fisheries management in West Africa—one that could inspire similar partnerships across the region.
As ocean resources continue to decline and competition intensifies, such bilateral frameworks are critical to ensuring that Africa’s coastal states maintain sovereignty over their marine wealth while promoting equity and sustainability.
