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The cold, nutrient-rich Benguela Current has for thousands of years fed the people who live along its shores. In this Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME), strong winds blowing predominantly from the southeast move the surface waters of the ocean, and this action causes the deep, cold waters to surge up to the surface. These waters are full of nutrients and once they reach the sunlight, masses of microscopic plants multiply by the millions to feed a long chain of prey and predators. The results are rich stocks of fish, crustaceans and other inter tidal organisms that live in the coastal waters and along the shore.
To this day, the fishing communities of the Benguela region rely on these resources, not only to feed their families but also to provide them with sufficient income to satisfy their most basic needs. Yet, today there are many challenges that need to be overcome to sustain the growing human populations.
Unfortunately, modern materials and technology also led to some very destructive practises, such as the use of small gauge nets and explosives. Therefore there is much work to be done to combat poverty and hunger, while at the same time ensuring that marine living resources are harvested sustainability.
It was in response to this monumental challenge that the Government of Angola created the Institute for the Development of Artisanal Fisheries, which is also known as IPA. It is through IPA that government and suitable partners can support the coastal communities and help them to improve their lives and manage their resources better.
At the heart of this support system lie the artisanal fishing cooperatives. They represent a collaborative effort between government, the people and willing partners to provide a better life for the fishers and their families. To find out how your organisation can become part of this dedicated effort to fighting poverty through sustainable resource management, please make contact with IPA
