After a two-month ban period, fishermen can once again carry out their activities in the Komo estuary and its tributaries in Gabon. This decision was announced by the General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture during a statement on Gabon 1ère on Thursday May 16, 2024. A relief for fishermen and local communities dependent on this activity.
It was the Director General of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Brice Didier Koumba, who formalized the resumption of fishing activities in the Komo estuary. This ban was put in place in mid-March after the discovery of dead fish in the area, a necessary measure to carry out in-depth investigations into the causes of this sudden mortality.
Resumption of fishing activities in the Komo estuary
Analyzes carried out during these two months revealed that the fish mortality was not due to a viral, bacterial or chemical pathogen. Brice Didier Koumba explained that “the lack of oxygen in the water could explain this occasional mortality”. This hypothesis is supported by the absence of other clues that could justify a massive death of fish. As a result, the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Jonathan Ignoumba decided to lift the ban and allow the resumption of fishing and aquaculture activities in the region.
During the suspension of fishing activities, Libreville was supplied with fish by the maritime Ogooué, with approximately two tonnes landed every two days. This temporary measure made it possible to maintain the supply of fishery products to the capital despite the ban. The press release specifies that fish landings will be carried out exclusively at the Libreville Artisanal Fishing Support Center (CAPAL). This decision aims to ensure controlled and secure management of the resumption of fishing activities.
