The FCWC offers a real opportunity for a coordinated regional approach to improving the sustainable management of fisheries in the sub-region. MCS support, improvement in fisheries data collection, development of a regional fisheries management plan (which focuses on harmonization of the fisheries legal regime, control of access to fishing, and enhancement of the marine ecosystem) and support for the artisanal fishery are some major management measures championed by the FCWC with financial and technical assistance from its partners.
Data collection
Fisheries data collection has become needful globally to help in the management and monitoring of the fisheries resource. The FCWC had its Data Centre installed under the FAO-TCP 3215 project to ensure that reliable fisheries catch and effort data is collected from its Member States for analyses and publication.
Fish trade plays a significant role in shaping the harvesting and the use of fish, and plays an important role in the transition to sustainable fisheries. Fish trade enhances living standards and sustainable development as well as contributing to food security.
Aquaculture is the regular production of aquatic plants and animals under controlled conditions. Approximately 90% of fish produced in West Africa comes from artisanal capture fisheries (from the sea and inland waters) and from cultured fisheries.
