The fisheries sector in São Tomé and Principe plays a vital role in the country's economy, providing around 80% of the animal protein consumed by the population. The sector also supports over 30,000 families, directly involving more than 4,000 fishermen and 2,000 women in the industry. To strengthen the entire value chain of the fisheries sector, the FISH4ACP program was implemented in the country over the past five years.
The FISH4ACP program has achieved significant results, including the development of a management plan for the sector, training and certification of around 400 fishing professionals, and introduction of new prototypes of boats, isothermal boxes, and refrigerated boxes powered by solar panels. The program was financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) responsible for its implementation.
Despite the progress made, the government of São Tomé and Principe highlighted that access to financing remains a major constraint to the development of the sector. Many fishermen, women, and small economic operators face difficulties in acquiring equipment, improving their boats, conserving their products, or expanding their activities. The government emphasized the need for financial mechanisms tailored to the reality of fishing professionals.
In response to these concerns, the coordinator of the FISH4ACP program, Olávio Aníbal, announced that an agreement had been signed with the Banco Internacional de São Tomé e Príncipe (BISTP) to provide $300,000 in credit to fishermen and women. The credit will be used to finance business plans developed with the support of the REINA incubator, aiming to strengthen the productive capacity and sustainability of their activities.
The financing will benefit fishermen and women integrated into 16 self-help groups established throughout the country. The program aims to support the development of the fisheries sector, which is a crucial source of income and employment for thousands of people in São Tomé and Principe. The government expressed its gratitude to the European Union, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, and the FAO for their support.
The FISH4ACP program has been instrumental in promoting sustainable fishing practices and improving the livelihoods of fishing communities in São Tomé and Principe. The program's focus on strengthening the entire value chain of the fisheries sector has helped to increase the sector's contribution to the country's economy. The access to credit will enable fishermen and women to invest in their businesses and improve their productivity.
The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of people in São Tomé and Principe, who depend on the fisheries sector for their livelihoods. The government's efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices and improve the livelihoods of fishing communities have been recognized by the international community. The FISH4ACP program is a key example of successful cooperation between the government, international organizations, and local communities.
Key points
- Fishermen and women in São Tomé and Principe to access $300,000 in credit through FISH4ACP program.
