Africa-Press – Cape verde. The National Association of Fishing Vessel Owners (APESC) today delivered gifts to the children of fishermen and fishmongers on Maio Island, as part of the “Solidarity Christmas for Fishermen and Fishmongers – Maio 2025” initiative.
The action, which takes place under the motto “Another smile,” is part of APESC’s activity plan for 2025 and is the result of a partnership with ACRIDES and the Maio Municipal Council, also counting on the support of the company Elite Bock’s, from Portugal.
In an interview with the press, Paulo Varela, head of APESC, explained that the initiative aims to support sectors of society that, due to economic difficulties, are not always able to provide a decent Christmas for their children, highlighting that the agricultural year was unfavorable and that many families on the island depend simultaneously on seasonal fishing and agriculture for their livelihood.
According to APESC, the association mobilized toys and school supplies, and more than 60 gifts have already been distributed to children, with plans to continue deliveries in February 2026, on Fisherman’s Day, when fishing equipment will also be made available to beneficiary families.
The organization also acknowledged that many of these families face additional difficulties, such as housing problems, lack of INPS (National Institute of Social Security) coverage, needs in terms of medication, and lack of fishing equipment, ensuring that it is working on the design of specific projects in these areas and seeking partnerships to meet these needs.
According to APESC, the Solidarity Christmas initiative also aligns with the recommendations of the 1st National Fisheries Congress and the directives of the 4th Ocean Conference, which advocate for strengthening the integration of fishing communities in national policies and decisions related to the sector.
The operation is budgeted at around 500,000 escudos and, as announced by the association’s management, should continue on other islands, with Sal Island being the next beneficiary of the program, coinciding with the celebration of Fisherman’s Day on February 5, 2026.
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