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PREPARATION OF THIS DOCUMENT
This document represents the report of the global workshop between regional fishery bodies and basin management organizations for scaling up cooperation towards sustainable inland fisheries in the context of food security and nutrition held from 6 to 8 December 2023 in Entebbe, Uganda. It was prepared and edited by Valerio Crespi (FAO Fishery Officer), Varun Tandon (FAO Fisheries Consultant), Piero Mannini (FAO Senior Liaison Officer), Stefania Savor (FAO Fishery Officer), Amani Alfarra (FAO Land and Water Officer) and Ashley Steel (FAO Forestry Officer).
ABSTRACT
Inland fisheries are pivotal for global food security and support local livelihoods, especially in landlocked and developing regions. These vital ecosystems supply substantial amounts of food while utilizing resources more efficiently than terrestrial livestock production. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recognizes the critical need for sustainable management of these resources and has advocated for an integrated management approach that aligns with global sustainability goals and biodiversity conservation frameworks. This initiative addresses pressing contemporary challenges such as climate change impacts, water scarcity, and ecosystem degradation, which pose significant threats to the productivity and sustainability of inland fisheries.
The primary objective of the Entebbe workshop, and the subsequent initiatives, is to develop effective regional cooperation frameworks that seamlessly integrate inland fisheries management into comprehensive basin management strategies. This approach aims to promote sustainable practices that balance economie, environmental, and social interests across different regions. Key areas for collaboration identified include improving water quality, conserving aquatic ecosystems, and developing joint strategie planning and management practices. The collaborative strategy involves sharing knowledge, strategies, and resources between Regional Fishery Bodies (RFBs) and Basin Management Organizations (BMOs) to effectively implement Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). Anticipated outcomes from these efforts include enhanced regional coordination, targeted policy recommendations, and the identification of synergistic funding opportunities that support sustainable fisheries management.
Looking ahead, the FAO and participating organizations are dedicated to formalizing this cooperation framework, conducting pilot studies to refine IWRM approaches and continuing to engage stakeholders at regional and global levels. These proactive steps aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of inland fisheries and ensure resilient aquatic ecosystems capable of supporting diverse fish species and providing enduring benefits for human populations.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
FAO would like to acknowledge the contributions of Lake Victoria Fisheries...