The port of Koperin, located near the urban commune of Dubréka in Guinea, is struggling with numerous difficulties that hinder the daily activities of fishermen and other sector stakeholders. The lack of fishing equipment is a major concern, with stakeholders citing the absence of motors, nets, and freezers or cold rooms to preserve fish.
Alya Bangoura, head of the Koperin port, emphasized the importance of the site in Dubréka's fishing sector, but lamented the lack of development and support it receives. He highlighted the need for infrastructure and equipment to facilitate fishing activities and preserve the catch. Bangoura appealed to authorities and well-meaning individuals to provide assistance to the port.
Fishermen like Mohamed Camara face significant challenges due to the lack of motors and insufficient nets, making their work more difficult. Camara called on authorities to pay more attention to the Koperin port and address the pressing needs of fishermen. The scarcity of equipment and infrastructure affects not only fishermen but also women involved in fish drying.
Mawa Doumbouya, a fish dryer, pointed out the need for cold rooms and motors for fishermen to improve working conditions. She stressed that government intervention is necessary to support port stakeholders. The lack of sanitation is another significant issue affecting the port, with concerns raised about the state of some boats and the overall cleanliness of the area.
Aboubacar Sylla, another fisherman, expressed concerns about the age of some boats, which poses a risk to workers. Port stakeholders are also worried about the construction of houses near the site, which could reduce available space for port activities if not addressed. The cumulative effect of these challenges has a significant impact on the livelihoods of those dependent on the port.
The stakeholders of Koperin port are calling on authorities to address their concerns, including the development of the port, installation of cold rooms, and provision of fishing equipment. They emphasize that Koperin remains an important hub for income-generating activities and deserves more attention and support. The situation at the port highlights the need for government intervention to improve the working conditions and productivity of fishermen and other stakeholders.
The plight of Koperin port stakeholders underscores the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the fishing sector in Guinea. With the right support and investment, the port can continue to play a vital role in the local economy and provide a sustainable livelihood for those involved in the fishing industry.
Key points
- The port of Koperin lacks essential equipment, including motors, nets, and cold rooms, hindering fishing activities and the livelihoods of stakeholders.
- Authorities are urged to address the challenges faced by Koperin port stakeholders, including infrastructure development and provision of fishing equipment.
- The situation at Koperin port highlights the need for government intervention to improve working conditions and productivity in the fishing sector.
