Women Transform Coastlines Amidst Ocean Crisis

In East Africa, coastal communities are actively adapting to the severe impacts of climate change and overfishing on their traditional livelihoods. Traditional fishing is becoming increasingly unsustainable, with catches drastically reduced. For instance, catches that once yielded up to 100 kilograms of fish now often yield less than 30 kilograms.

Fisherfolk, especially women, are spearheading a shift towards conservation-based businesses. These initiatives include restoring mangrove forests for income through beekeeping and ecotourism, protecting coral reefs, and revitalizing seagrass meadows. These efforts not only create new employment opportunities but also help to restore marine ecosystems.

International agreements like the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement are crucial for safeguarding marine resources and supporting these communities. However, there is an urgent need to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which poses a significant threat to marine life and the food security of millions.