Mouila, 11 Dec. 2024 (AGP)-The Ambassador of the European Union (EU) in Gabon proceeded to visit the Mouila fishing center on Tuesday, chief town of the province of Ngounié (South), as part of the Protocol D ‘Fishing agreement between the EU and Gabon, noted the AGP.
The visit aimed to assess the achievements made and to identify priority needs for the advancement of the sector. After a meeting with the governor of the province, Francis Oyinamono, the delegation of the European Union and the Ministry of Fisheries went to the Mouila fishing center, where it was a question of taking stock of the work carried out As part of the fishing partnership between the two parties, while planning to new perspectives for cooperation.
According to Cécile Abadie, ambassador of the European Union in Gabon, future discussions with the Gabonese authorities will focus on priority aspects aimed at allowing the sector to reach a higher level. These priorities will include institutional issues, the structuring of activity around cooperatives, to benefit from better support, and also the implementation of a larger land -in -scale.
«We have an envelope for these projects, but it is vital to agree on the priorities“, She stressed at the end of this visit.
For his part, the provincial director of fishing, Colonel Camel Mangoumba Boundoukou, highlighted certain issues encountered in the fishing center. “”Here we have the problem of the landing platform. We have requested the contribution of a new machine for the production of ice, as the one we currently have is limited to a ton per slice of 24 hours ”, he said.
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interview with Cécile Abadie: Enhancing Gabon’s Fishing Sector through EU Support
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Ambassador Abadie. Your recent visit to the mouila fishing center has drawn significant attention. Can you share the main objectives of this visit?
Cécile Abadie (CA): Thank you for having me. The primary purpose of my visit was to assess the achievements made under the EU-Gabon fishing agreement and to discuss priority needs that will elevate the sector.We met with local authorities to evaluate ongoing projects and to explore new perspectives for cooperation.
TNE: What are the key areas that the EU aims to focus on in the fishing sector moving forward?
CA: In our future discussions with Gabonese authorities, we’ll concentrate on several strategic priorities. These include enhancing institutional frameworks, promoting the organization of fishing activities around cooperatives, and facilitating broader initiatives that ensure enduring practices. It’s crucial that we agree on these priorities to optimize the impact of our investment.
TNE: You mentioned an investment envelope for these projects. Can you clarify what types of projects this funding covers?
CA: Yes, we have allocated funds for various initiatives aimed at improving the fishing sector. This encompasses investments in infrastructure, such as better landing platforms, and enhancing processing capabilities—like providing new ice production machines, wich are vital for maintaining fish quality. These improvements are essential for supporting local fishermen and ensuring the sustainability of their practices.
TNE: Colonel Camel Mangoumba Boundoukou highlighted some challenges at the Mouila fishing center, particularly regarding infrastructure. Can you provide insights into how the EU plans to address these challenges?
CA: The concerns raised by Colonel boundoukou are valid. He pointed out the limitations of their current ice production capacity, which directly affects fish preservation.Our intention is to work closely with local authorities to identify specific needs and fund the necessary equipment. Improving the landing platforms and enhancing the entire supply chain will be critical in overcoming these challenges.
TNE: The partnership between the EU and Gabon in the fishing sector appears promising. What do you see as the long-term benefits for both parties?
CA: This partnership can have significant long-term benefits. For Gabon, it means sustainable fisheries management, improved livelihoods for local communities, and increased economic contributions from the sector. For the EU, supporting Gabon’s fishing industry aligns with our commitment to sustainable growth and enhances mutual trade ties. A thriving fishing sector in Gabon can lead to better seafood supplies for European markets,benefiting both regions.
TNE: As an expert in diplomacy and development, what practical advice can you give to local fishermen and fishing cooperatives?
CA: My advice would be to engage actively with cooperative structures. By coming together, fishermen can access resources and training that will help them modernize their practices. They should also leverage partnerships with local and international organizations to seek support for capacity building and infrastructure improvement. Building a coherent strategy that aligns with national and international standards will also ensure they can compete effectively in the market.
TNE: Thank you, Ambassador Abadie, for sharing your insights on this pivotal partnership and the future of Gabon’s fishing industry.
CA: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the important work being done in Gabon’s fishing sector. I look forward to seeing positive developments that will benefit both local communities and our partnership with the EU.