Comoros: Artisanal Fishermen Taking Ownership of Fish Aggregating Devices
How can artisanal fishery catches be increased to improve the livelihoods of fishing communities in the Comoros, while promoting sustainable fishing practices in the lagoons?
From June 13 to 19, in Bangoi Hambou, twenty artisanal fishermen took part in a capacity-building workshop on the maintenance and management of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs). Over seven days, participants engaged in a mix of theoretical sessions and practical exercises.
A FAD is a floating device made up of submerged buoys placed offshore, designed to recreate a natural food chain that attracts schools of fish, thereby facilitating artisanal fishing.
This training was organized by the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) and the Comorian government under the ECOFISH Programme, funded by the European Union.
A Long-Term Initiative
At the official closing ceremony of the training, Fatima Alfeine, Permanent Liaison Officer of the Union of the Comoros for ECOFISH, emphasized the importance of passing on new skills—a key step in the Comorian government’s fisheries policy. Mastering the construction, maintenance, and management of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) will enable fishing communities to fully take ownership of these tools, thereby strengthening their food security and safety at sea.
“The goal of this training was really to help our fishermen better understand these devices, maintain them, and use them effectively. We hope this initiative will be sustainable over time. We have been told that in Mauritius, a well-maintained device can last up to eight years. With good upkeep, we hope to do even better.”
Representatives from the youth of Bangoi and fishing cooperatives from Ngazidja were also present at the event.
Current Situation
According to the latest national fisheries statistics bulletin published in 2020, based on 2019 data, there were 23,246 artisanal fishers in the Comoros, including 14,836 shore fishers and 5,006 fishing boats, 80% of which are traditional, non-motorized vessels at the national level. Catches were estimated at 17,600 tonnes, representing a landing value of 27.4 billion Comorian francs (KMF), or approximately 55.6 million euros. About 45% of catches come respectively from Grande Comore and Anjouan, with the remaining 10% from Mohéli. Tuna and related species account for 70% of the total production.
Fishing in the Comoros is mainly a coastal activity, with over 80% of fish caught within 12 nautical miles of the shore. Species such as tuna, grouper, snapper, and other pelagic fish are abundant, making them important targets for the local fishing industry. The fisheries sector also holds significant export potential, particularly for tuna and other high-value species. Despite this, the sector faces numerous challenges, including overfishing, declining fish stocks, limited access to modern fishing gear, and difficulties maintaining sustainable practices.
Over the past 20 years, Comorian authorities have supported the creation of fishing cooperatives to foster sector development, notably through Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), subsidized engines, and access to credit. Today, more than 100 cooperatives bring together nearly 4,200 fishers across the three islands. These groups are organized into regional and national unions to influence public policy. However, strengthening their capacities remains essential to ensure effective and sustainable co-management of artisanal fisheries.
The introduction of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) presents an opportunity to improve fishing yields, promote sustainable practices, and enhance the livelihoods of fishing communities in the Comoros. By providing a reliable mechanism to attract fish to otherwise less productive areas, FADs can help increase catch efficiency and reduce pressure on coastal resources. By encouraging sustainable fishing practices, this initiative can contribute to the long-term health of the country’s marine ecosystem and the economic well-being of its fishing communities. The success of this project will not only improve food security and incomes but also offer valuable lessons for sustainable fisheries management in small island developing states.
