Focusing on monofilament nets while overlooking the priorities of artisanal fisheries governance in Senegal. Issue 3 (25th October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thiao, D; Mbaye, A; Dème, M; Diadhiou, HD
• Is Part Of: African journal of marine science. Volume 39:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 339
• Page End: 348
• Publication Date: 2017-10-25
• Subjects: coastal fisheries -- economic profitability -- efficiency -- environmental impacts -- fishing gear -- gillnets -- ghost fishing -- integrated management -- management responses -- overcapacity -- sustainable practices; Marine biology -- Africa -- Periodicals; Marine biology -- Periodicals; Marine sciences -- Periodicals; 578.7709605
• DOI: 10.2989/1814232X.2017.1377634
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1814-232X

Abstract

Abstract : Despite its legal prohibition since 1998, the nylon monofilament net is still widely used in Senegalese artisanal fisheries. To achieve a complete ban on monofilament use, it is necessary to understand the main arguments for its continued use and what alternatives exist. Using a field experiment among local fishers as well as empirical knowledge and a literature review, this article highlights the challenges to the eradication of nylon monofilament. Our study shows that in a context where decision-makers pay too much attention to social, economic and political stakes, the efficiency of nylon monofilament nets confers a major advantage upon which fishers rely, and this counters any regulatory action against this type of gear. Moreover, numerous studies globally have indicated that communication campaigns that focus on the ghost-fishing power of this type of net seem to be inappropriate. We concluded that the issue of continued use of monofilament should be addressed through an integrated fisheries management programme that reduces overcapacity and fosters sustainable fishing practices.