Over 300 boats, including 152 owned by foreigners, which are involved in deep sea and industrial fishing activities, will resume regular work in Mauritanian waters, after a two-month respite (September and October).
This biological rest, which was launched a few years ago by the authorities consists in the suspension of all catches of certain sea species for a period of four months divided into two phases, with the first one in April-May and the second one extending from September to October.
The operation is an attempt to preserve the national reserves of sea products, by creating a safe environment and favorable conditions for the reproduction of species on one hand, and protect the marine environment, largely affected by the movements of foreign high shipping capacity boats, on the other hand.
The fishing sector, which is crucial for Mauritania, contributes between 25 to 30 per cent of the State budget and 40 per cent of the country’s foreign exchange earnings.
At the social level, the fishing sector employs some 5,200 permanent workers, in addition to seasonal workers and other related activities.
Small-scale fishing in which traditional boats are used is left out of this process, in an effort to ensure the regular supply of the local fish market.
The coastal area of Mauritania is 700-km long, with a variety of fish and birds species.
Source African Press Agency
