Gabon
Our work
Global Fishing Watch is proud to support Gabon in its commitment to sustainable fisheries management, contributing to the country’s efforts to improve oversight of the small-scale fishing sector through the use of advanced satellite technology.
Our collaboration with Gabon began in 2020 with a series of demonstrations highlighting our innovative tools and quickly burgeoned into discussions about how to best enhance the transparency of the country’s vessel tracking systems.Â
A major milestone was reached in June 2024 when we formalized a partnership with the Gulf of Guinea Regional Fisheries Commission (COREP), a coalition of 11 African nations including Gabon, to address urgent maritime challenges in the region, especially illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
IUU fishing results in an estimated economic loss of over US $2 billion dollars annually in the Gulf of Guinea, one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. Preserving this region is crucial not only for environmental health but also for the local economies and food security.
The partnership between Global Fishing Watch and COREP highlights the importance of data sharing, tactical coordination and enhanced vessel transparency in combating illegal fishing activities. By leveraging Global Fishing Watch’s technology, Gabon is gaining access to enhanced monitoring capabilities and deeper insights into vessel activities within its waters, fostering more effective management of marine resources.
Gabon is also set to participate in a joint project with TMT aimed at supporting implementation of the Port State Measures Agreement through the use of Vessel Viewer. This initiative seeks to strengthen fisheries governance by providing training and technical assistance to improve the detection of IUU fishing.
Our efforts in Gabon extend beyond technology deployment. We also provide analytical support for vessel monitoring, train local authorities to maximize the use of our tools and assist in reviewing and updating policies and regulations to better combat IUU fishing.
Highlights
Our work in Gabon encompasses collaborations with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food and the Ministry of Fisheries and Maritime Economy.
Vessel tracking: Making vessels publicly visible
Gabon has made significant progress in making its fishing fleet publicly visible by law, but full implementation is still in progress. We are working with local authorities to ensure that the vessel monitoring system and automatic identification system requirements are enforced to bolster transparency.
Operational support: Strengthening national and regional surveillance
At a regional level, we have partnered with the French Navy to support joint patrols aimed at curbing illegal activities within Gabon’s waters.
Marine protection: Supporting effective conservation
Gabon is revising the management plans for its more than 20 MPAs, and we are actively involved in this process. By offering data-driven insights into vessel activity and environmental factors, we are helping ensure conservation efforts are both effective and sustainable.
Vessel information: Completing the picture of vessel activity
Through COREP we are supporting the creation of a regional public register of fishing vessels. This initiative will provide vital information on vessel activity, contributing to enhanced fisheries management and transparency.
About Gabon
Gabon is a regional leader in marine protection, but it faces significant challenges, particularly in managing its protected areas and addressing IUU fishing—the main threat to its marine resources. Gabon’s fisheries sector remains vital to its economy and artisanal fisheries play a crucial role, with about 1,000 boats supporting the nation’s fish supply. With an annual fish consumption of 77 pounds (35 kilograms) per person—one of the highest rates on the African continent—Gabon continues to depend on imports to meet local demand. The country’s tuna fisheries are primarily operated by European vessels, while Chinese companies dominate the trawling industry under the Gabonese flag.Â
Gabon’s membership of COREP and the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas underscores its commitment to international conservation efforts. As we continue to deepen our partnership with the country, Global Fishing Watch is committed to advancing transparency, strengthening fisheries governance and supporting Gabon’s efforts to combat IUU fishing.Â
By working together, we can safeguard Gabon’s marine resources for future generations, ensure sustainable fisheries and protect one of the world’s most biodiverse marine environments.