The cooperative of fishermen from Trou d'Eau Douce, with support from the United Nations Development Programme's micro-financing program, launched the Mo Poisson mobile app on November 12. This innovative tool aims to provide digital solutions for fishermen to record catches, monitor income and expenses, and access larger markets through an online marketplace for seafood products. By using QR codes, fishermen can easily enter information about their catches.
The app's launch event took place at La Pelouse in Trou d'Eau Douce, attended by prominent figures including Arvind Boolell, Minister of Agro-industry and Blue Economy, and Fabrice David, junior minister of the same ministry. Other attendees included Ajay Gunness, Minister of National Infrastructures, Nicholas Prea, Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles, and Pamela Bapoo Dundoo, National Coordinator of the Micro-financing Program. The event showcased the app's potential to modernize and transform the fishing sector.
Arvind Boolell described the app as "an important first step towards the long-term empowerment of the fishing community." Fabrice David highlighted the blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the sector's evolution while preserving its expertise. Ajay Gunness emphasized the need for fishermen to acquire digital skills to effectively utilize the app and adapt to new technologies. Pamela Bapoo Dundoo noted that the project enables individuals to test local ideas and demonstrate their viability.
The Mo Poisson app allows fishermen to enter details about their catches, including origin and date, ensuring transparency and accurate data collection. The cooperative validates the data, which will help track and manage fish stocks more effectively. This digital solution has the potential to improve the livelihoods of artisanal fishermen and promote sustainable fishing practices.
Eighteen fishermen participated in the program and received training on using the app, which is expected to expand to all artisanal fishermen on the island. The app is currently accessible at https://www.tddfishermen.com/mo-poisson and will soon be available on Google and Apple app stores. This development marks a significant step towards the digitalization of the fishing sector in Mauritius.
The Mo Poisson app has been designed to be user-friendly, allowing fishermen to easily manage their activities and make informed decisions. By leveraging digital technologies, the app aims to enhance the competitiveness of artisanal fishermen and promote economic growth in the sector. The project's success could serve as a model for other fishing communities.
The launch of the Mo Poisson app demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting the fishing community and promoting sustainable development. Key stakeholders, including the United Nations Development Programme and local authorities, have come together to empower artisanal fishermen and improve their livelihoods. The app's impact will be closely monitored, and its potential for replication in other regions will be explored.
Key points
- The Mo Poisson app provides a digital platform for artisanal fishermen to manage catches, track finances, and access larger markets.
