CONCLUSION OF LAKE VICTORIA SMALL FISH PROJECT SUPERVISION MISSION
Date: October 23, 2024
Location: Tanzania and Uganda
The conclusion of the Lake Victoria Small Fish Project (LVSFP) Supervision Mission marks a significant milestone in the persistent efforts to enhance the sustainability of fisheries in Lake Victoria, one of the most critical inland aquatic ecosystems globally. From October 14 to October 22, 2024, the mission was conducted under the auspices of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in collaboration with the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization (LVFO).
Mission Leadership and Objectives
Fisheries & Aquaculture Consultant Erick Ogello and Fisheries Specialist Audrey Tchoundi spearheaded the mission. Their primary objectives were to comprehensively evaluate the project’s performance, engage with key stakeholders, and uncover avenues for improvement. Specifically, the mission sought to assess progress against established milestones, gauge the project’s socio-economic impact on local communities, and gather insights to inform actionable recommendations for future initiatives.
Key Findings and Recommendations
The expert team engaged with local community members during the mission and reviewed innovative fish processing technologies. Notable among these were solar dryers and solar lamps, which present significant potential for enhancing production outcomes for local fishers. The culmination of their findings will be meticulously documented in the forthcoming Grant Supervision Progress Report, scheduled for release on October 31, 2024. This report will encompass detailed accounts of project challenges, financial management practices, and strategic recommendations aimed at bolstering sustainability and improving market access for small fish species, particularly the beloved Rastrineobola argentea, commonly known as Dagaa, Mukene, or Omena.
Economic and Environmental Context
Lake Victoria is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and productive fisheries, contributing an estimated $600 million annually to the local economy while directly supporting around 220,000 fishers. However, this wealth faces challenges, primarily from overfishing and unsustainable practices that pose threats to larger fish populations. The LVSFP is committed to addressing these issues by focusing on managing smaller fish stocks, thereby uplifting the socio-economic conditions of communities that rely heavily on these crucial resources.
Community Engagement
A standout aspect of the mission was engaging local stakeholders. By directly interacting with community beneficiaries, the team gained invaluable insights into the project’s impact, reinforcing the importance of participatory approaches in the design and execution of initiatives. The feedback gathered will be instrumental in guiding the LVSFP’s future directions, ensuring that it remains responsive to the evolving needs of local communities.
Future Directions –
The detailed report generated from the supervision mission is poised to serve as a cornerstone for ongoing improvements in fishery management and community support initiatives. Through fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders and implementing strategic recommendations, the mission aspires to safeguard Lake Victoria’s ecological balance while improving the livelihoods and nutritional standards of the populations that depend on its resources.
The conclusion of the LVSFP Supervision Mission represents a pivotal moment for the communities surrounding Lake Victoria. It reaffirms the collective commitment to sustainable fishing practices and bolstering economic resilience in the region. As the project morphs and adapts over time, it holds the potential to protect the biodiversity of this treasured ecosystem while securing a prosperous future for generations to come. The work undertaken during this mission exemplifies a dedication to environmental sustainability and community empowerment, paving the way for success stories to unfold against Lake Victoria’s shimmering waters.
