The standoff continues between traditional fishermen from Ambalamanga and those from Ampasindava. Last week, local fishermen denounced the use of unauthorized nets by Ampasindava fishermen and demanded they cease operations. In response, the migrants gathered in large numbers on Monday in Aranta for a show of force. They claim they will not leave and will continue fishing in the area. The house of the sojabe leader of migrants using "kôky be" nets was nearly set on fire by unknown assailants. Clashes are feared if authorities do not act quickly. "The sea belongs to no one. Everyone can fish there. Our nets can be inspected to verify compliance with standards. We call on fishing authorities to come inspect them. We use nets with 15mm mesh," explained the fishermen's spokesperson.

Work
Women members of the "kôky be" group also stressed that the presence of fishermen from elsewhere provides work for Aranta traders. "Their presence provides work for merchants in Ambalamanga and Ambalahonko. We women from the be kapila and Aranta groups are satisfied with the situation because we've been able to create small businesses. We share the fish collected by the kôky be, which allows everyone to work. Even our young children learn this activity during school holidays. It's a trade passed down through generations, which we teach them now. Why do they want to chase us from Mahajanga when fishermen from Mahajamba, Ambalamanga, Sotema and Bonamaro come to us in Ampasindava? They use nets of 3,000 to 4,000 km, but we never stopped them from working. They don't even sell us their fish, whereas here we share our catch," said a trader.

"Tsy miala kôky be" could be read on banners displayed during the Aranta demonstration.