World Fisheries Day 2024 brought a wave of celebration and impactful actions as Nipe Fagio joined hands with Dar Es Salaam Environmental Projects Organization (DEPO) and Sea Sense to honour the hardworking fishing communities and raise awareness about the critical role fisheries play in sustaining livelihoods, food security, and biodiversity. For this year’s event, we joined a beach cleanup at the Ferry Fish Market and Kichangani Beach, combining cleanup efforts, environmental education, and entertainment to create a memorable and purpose-driven day. Nipe Fagio’s Young Ambassadors (YAs) led the Waste Analysis and Brand Audit (WABA) following the cleanup at the Ferry Fish Market and Kichangani Beach.
Collaborating with fishers, community members, and other stakeholders, we extended the cleanup efforts, removing litter but also collecting valuable marine litter data—a cornerstone of our advocacy work to combat plastic pollution. By identifying the types and sources of waste, especially plastic, we are equipping policymakers, businesses, and communities with the evidence needed to create effective waste management solutions and policies.
The event wasn’t all hard work there was a vibrant mix of entertainment, games, and sports that brought the community together. Beyond fun, these activities served as a platform to communicate critical messages about. Environmental Conservation, through engaging performances and interactive games, we emphasized the importance of keeping our oceans clean for marine life and the communities relying on them. Drowning Prevention Awareness, fishing communities are at a high risk of water-related accidents. Practical demonstrations and discussions provided tips on staying safe at sea, making the event even more impactful for fishers and their families.
Plastic pollution poses a severe threat to fisheries and the marine environment. Discarded plastics often end up in oceans, entangling marine animals, damaging fishing gear, and leaching harmful chemicals into the water. Fish, shellfish, and even plankton mistakenly ingest microplastics, which can then make their way up the food chain, threatening food safety and human health. To combat this, Nipe Fagio advocates for stronger policies to regulate single-use plastics and promote sustainable alternatives. Our awareness campaigns educate communities, including fishing groups, on the dangers of plastic pollution and encourage collective action to protect marine ecosystems.
Through events like the one on World Fisheries Day, Nipe Fagio continues to align with our mission to create a zero-waste Tanzania. By combining data-driven advocacy, community engagement, and policy influence, we are fostering a systemic change that benefits not only the fishing industry but the entire nation. Whether it’s participating in cleanups, reducing your plastic use, or advocating for sustainable policies, every action counts. Together, we can ensure that fisheries remain a vibrant source of life and livelihoods for generations to come.
