The Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy has settled a dispute between traditional fishermen from Ambalamanga at Fitim Bridge and migrants from Ampasindava. The use of illegal and non-compliant fishing nets (kaôky be) by migrants had opposed the two groups months earlier. During his visit, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Dr. Be-Rija Ravelomanantsoa, confirmed the ban on beach seine nets and fishing equipment made from mosquito netting.
The ministerial decree of January 11, 2018 prohibits the use of beach seine nets throughout Madagascar's territory and national waters. Any mesh or cast net operated from shore that destroys seabeds and captures juvenile fish is banned. The use of tulle or mosquito netting as fishing nets is formally prohibited due to destructive capture of fry and juveniles.
"The use of these 'kaôky be' fishing materials is suspended throughout the territory, particularly in Mahajanga. Fishing is governed by code and law. Future generations are threatened if we allow such equipment. We must protect fishery resources and preserve marine biodiversity against destructive overfishing. A solution is being sought, but everyone must first regularize their situation to begin," declared the Secretary General.
The new regional director of Boeny Fisheries also called on those concerned to regularize their situation in Mahajanga. "All Mahajanga fishermen must enter the formal sector. They are called to do so before ministry inspections," specified director Yvon Velomanana.
The awareness campaign for regularizing local fishermen's status consists of issuing fishing cards. "Fishermen must obtain authorization before practicing this activity. They must possess a card. Additionally, collection permits and cards are also required for collectors. These documents are mandatory for those engaged in the activity. The law will be applied to those without these documents," warned Boeny Fisheries Service Chief Fabrice Ramangamahay.
The Fisheries Code reform is underway this year. The ministry's objective aims to protect against juvenile fish capture and combat illegal fishing.