A high-level meeting to assess the contribution of aquaculture to Africa's development was held in Dakar, Senegal, from October 7 to 8, 2026. The meeting was jointly organized by the African Network of Institutions for Aquaculture Development and Promotion (RAFAQUA) and the African Network of Fisheries Research and Marine Science Institutes (RAFISMER). Both organizations operate under the auspices of the Ministerial Conference on Fisheries Cooperation among African States Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, ATLAFCO.
The meeting brought together representatives from ATLAFCO's 22 member states, as well as the CSRP, Portugal's AIR Centre, and the OMPDA. The objective was to share experiences and foster synergy among ATLAFCO member states through the RAFAQUA and RAFISMER networks. The workshop's theme was "What contribution can aquaculture make to inclusive growth, sustainable development, and job creation in Africa?" Experts discussed the potential of aquaculture to address Africa's development challenges.
Executive Secretary of ATLAFCO, Taoufik El Ktiri, praised the high quality of the presentations and contributions, noting that they demonstrate a commitment to developing a sustainable, competitive, profitable, and equitable aquaculture sector for Africa. The meeting provided a platform for experts to share knowledge and best practices in aquaculture, with a focus on promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Chief of Staff to Senegal's Minister of Fisheries and the Maritime Economy, Mr. Baba Ndiaye, welcomed the hosting of the meeting in Senegal. He argued that aquaculture emerges as a credible alternative to traditional fishing, which is facing declining fish catch and rapid population growth. Ndiaye emphasized that aquaculture can contribute significantly to achieving food security goals, creating jobs and income, and combating illegal migration.
President of RAFISMER, Mohamed Najih, stressed that the success of aquaculture requires a coordinated approach. He called for strong synergy among policymakers, research institutes, the private sector, and development partners. Najih emphasized the need for the state to play a facilitator role by securing investments, standardizing production zones, and modernizing supporting infrastructure.
President of RAFAQUA, Mr. Samba Ka, also called for coordinated action across Africa. He emphasized that finding sustainable solutions requires working together. Ka's remarks underscored the importance of collaboration and cooperation in promoting the development of aquaculture in Africa.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting sustainable aquaculture practices in Africa. Key stakeholders emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to harness the potential of aquaculture for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and job creation. The outcome of the meeting is expected to contribute to the development of a sustainable and equitable aquaculture sector in Africa.
Key points
- The meeting was attended by representatives from ATLAFCO's 22 member states and other organizations.
- Aquaculture is seen as a credible alternative to traditional fishing, which is facing declining fish catch and rapid population growth.
- Experts emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to promote the development of aquaculture in Africa.
