Africa-Press – Gambia. Omar Gaye, Public Relations Officer of the Gambia Artisanal Fisheries Association, has welcomed the government’s proposed six-month night fishing ban but cautions that without strong enforcement, clear regulations, and equal treatment for all fishing sectors, the ban will be ineffective.
Speaking to The Voice, Gaye emphasized that simply announcing a closure is insufficient to protect dwindling fish stocks. “The ocean isn’t something you can just declare closed and expect everyone to comply. There must be visible monitoring, defined departure and return times, and real commitment to enforcement,” he said.
Gaye criticized the official notice for setting 6a.m departure time, calling it unrealistic for artisanal fishermen who usually head out early in the morning. “It should clearly say boats can depart at 6 a.m. and must return by 6 p.m. By that time, no boat should still be at sea but this only works if there is proper enforcement,” he added.
He also voiced concern that artisanal fishermen are often disproportionately targeted, while large industrial trawlers continue to operate most time beyond legal boundaries and unchecked. “If the goal is true sustainability, industrial vessels must also be held to account. Targeting only artisanal fishers while allowing trawlers to continue undermines the purpose of the ban,” Gaye stressed.
Highlighting the experience of local fishers, Gaye called for greater involvement of artisanal communities in policy decisions. “We’re out there every day. We see what’s happening. Our voices should be part of the decision-making process,” he urged
He reiterated that while the night fishing ban is a step in the right direction, it will only succeed if supported by clear rules, fair and equal enforcement, and meaningful stakeholder engagement. “Sustainability requires more than just closing the sea it requires action,” he concluded.
To ensure fair implementation, Gaye proposed forming a multi-agency enforcement task force by including the Navy, Immigration Department, Fisheries officials, Fire and Rescue Services, and representatives of artisanal fishermen to monitor compliance and hold violators accountable.
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