The Côte d'Ivoire Marine Nationale has initiated Operation NEMO 2026, a comprehensive exercise aimed at curbing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (INN) fishing activities in the country's waters. This operation is part of the Grand African NEMO 2026, a multinational exercise that brings together various units of the Marine Nationale, including the high-seas patrol vessel Contre-Amiral Fadika and the coastal patrol vessel Le Bouclier.
The operation, led by Captain of the Frigate Guié Ghislain, Chief of the Operations Bureau, involves several state services, including the National Gendarmerie, National Police, Customs, Maritime Affairs, the Directorate of Fisheries, and the Ministry of Fisheries. The goal of this joint operation is to enhance surveillance, detection, and control of fishing activities in the country's waters, while strengthening coordination among competent authorities.
The launch of Operation NEMO 2026 is a significant step towards addressing the issue of illegal fishing in Côte d'Ivoire's waters. Illegal fishing activities have been a major concern for the country's fishing industry, threatening the sustainability of fish stocks, undermining the livelihoods of coastal communities, and compromising the preservation of marine ecosystems.
According to the authorities, Operation NEMO 2026 aims to improve the country's response capacity to combat INN fishing, which has significant economic, social, and environmental impacts. The operation will focus on enhancing the capabilities of the Marine Nationale and other participating agencies to monitor, detect, and control fishing activities in the country's waters.
The exercise also seeks to promote cooperation and coordination among the various agencies involved in the fight against INN fishing. This includes the sharing of information, intelligence, and best practices in surveillance and enforcement. By working together, the authorities aim to create a more effective and sustainable response to the threat of illegal fishing.
The launch of Operation NEMO 2026 is a welcome development for the fishing industry in Côte d'Ivoire, which has been impacted by illegal fishing activities. The country's fisheries sector is a significant contributor to the national economy, providing employment and income for thousands of people. However, the sector's sustainability is threatened by INN fishing, which undermines the long-term viability of fish stocks.
The success of Operation NEMO 2026 will depend on the effective coordination and cooperation of all participating agencies. The authorities have expressed their commitment to combating INN fishing and protecting the country's fisheries resources. With the launch of this operation, Côte d'Ivoire has taken a significant step towards addressing the issue of illegal fishing and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Key points
- The operation aims to improve surveillance, detection, and control of fishing activities in Côte d'Ivoire's waters.
- The exercise involves several state services, including the National Gendarmerie, National Police, and Customs.
- The goal is to enhance the country's response capacity to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
