Fostering sustainable fisheries transformation

Aligning national strategies to continental policies

NIGER: With ambitions to become a major actor in Africa's sustainable fisheries transformation by aligning its national strategies to continental objectives, Niger has concluded a three-day workshop to address its plans with the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa (PFRS).

The successful National Stakeholders' Consultative and Validation Workshop was held in Niamey last week and Niger is confident that it is moving to match its fisheries and aquaculture policies with the African Union's continental plans.

Jointly organised by AU-IBAR and Niger's Ministry of Environment, Hydraulic and Sanitation, the workshop aimed at aligning national strategies and investment plans with the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa (PFRS).

The discussions also covered climate adaptation and the incorporation of important worldwide tools to strengthen resilience in a region growing more susceptible to climate change.

Speaking on behalf of Dr Huyam Salih, Director of AU-IBAR, Rafik Nouaili underlined the need of harmonising Niger's fisheries management with continental and international systems. He commended the multi-stakeholder cooperation, including contributions from government agencies, the commercial sector, and civil society, which he said is essential for attaining sustainability in the field.

Nouaili further acknowledged the significant inputs of national consultant and process participants. He underlined again the assistance of the EU-funded FishGov2 project, which is helping African Union member countries reach inclusive and sustainable fish development according with Agenda 2063.

In his introductory remarks, Secretary-General Rabo AWALI of the Ministry urged fresh drive in carrying out continental and regional plans. Emphasising the importance of stronger alliances and coordinated actions to save aquatic ecosystems, wetlands, and lakes, he also said that fisheries and aquaculture might provide economic possibilities.

Over the three-day event, attendees explored important topics. During the last plenary, working group sessions produced a series of concrete ideas and attendees supported important consultancy papers. These results are meant to help Niger refine and carry out its sectoral strategies going forward.

The session ended with a collective resolve to turn the suggestions into real changes. Stakeholders thanked AU-IBAR for its continuous assistance and underlined their will to improve Niger's blue economy.