Tackling the Global Problem of Dynamite Fishing – Video

Video credit: World Fish Center

Review: World Fish Center and Abdel Rahman El Gamal (Founder of the video channel)

Dynamite fishing in Tanzania (02)

 

 

 

This video was filmed in Tanzania.

In Tanzania, illegal and destructive fishing practices threaten environmental sustainability and the livelihoods of small-scale fishers. The future of several communities reliant on fisheries depends on finding a more effective ways of managing natural resources.

Blast fishing in Tanzania dates back to the 1960s and by the mid-1990s had become a serious problem. The booming in mining and road construction has made it easier and cheaper for people to get their hands on explosives such as dynamite. Moreover, used bombs could be made from fertilizers and kerosene.

The large-scale ballast fishing not only destroys large numbers of fish directly, but also kills coral. Some reports cite anecdotal evidence that blasts have killed dolphins which swim in Tanzania’s waters.

Bearing in mind that Tanzania is the home to an extensive network of coral reefs whose biodiversity and beauty support major artisanal fishing as well as tourism; it becomes obvious the serious impact of dynamite fishing on fishery resources, coral reef and tourism. In addition to that, this fishing practice is posing the danger of shattering limbs, even killing people.

Under the 2003 Fisheries Act of Tanzania, minimum sentences are 5 years for dynamite fishing and 12 months for possession of explosives. In addition to the governing acts and the means of law enforcement with the support of police as well as the navy, creating awareness among local fishermen has been found necessary for educating the fishers on the dangers of destructive fishing practices. The collaborative project between the WorldFish Center and local partners focuses on educating fishers aiming to help secure a healthy ocean for future generations.

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