Dr. Rashid Sumaila and MSc student Lauren Shea at the University of the Gambia.
The damaging effects of large-scale fisheries can be observed in our greater ecosystem, but impacts on the livelihoods of vulnerable communities are perhaps some of the least-acknowledged repercussions of such activities. Dr. Rashid Sumaila, Professor at SPPGA and UBC Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, and MSc student Lauren Shea recently completed a trip to the Gambia, also known as the Smiling Coast of West Africa.
While the Gambia is home to an extraordinary environmental reserve boasting varieties of botany and animals, its wealth of natural resources has also attracted large companies involved in fishing and fishmeal operations, particularly from China, and various issues revolving around Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. Dr. Sumaila delivered a keynote address and moderated workshops for the West Africa-China Cooperation aimed at involving community members, NGOs, fishers, government officials and scientists in discussion regarding safer and more sustainable fishing methods.
“For the Gambia, the impacts on the lives and livelihoods of citizens as well as the marine ecosystems of the country are huge.”
Dr. Sumaila also conducted a workshop with journalism students from the University of Gambia, held by China Dialogue Ocean. With a focus on reporting environmental and climate issues, Dr. Sumaila was encouraged by the students’ passion for global news and sustainable development. “The students were full of energy and enthusiasm about their ability to influence the future development of their country. The Gambia, Africa and the world need them to succeed.”
Dr. Sumaila with fellow speakers and individuals from sponsoring organizations: China Dialogue Ocean, The University of the Gambia, and the Stimson Centre.
