Illegal fishing targeting yellowfin tuna in Somali waters has revealed critical weaknesses in the country’s maritime governance. Somalia’s rich fisheries, essential for local livelihoods and global food markets, face increasing threats from illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities. These activities, predominantly carried out by foreign vessels, are estimated to cost the nation approximately $300 million annually.
Exploitation of Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin tuna, one of the world’s most commercially valuable fish, has become a prime target for illegal fishing due to its high demand. Foreign fleets, particularly from China, employ destructive techniques like bottom trawling, dynamite fishing, and the use of large purse seines to extract vast quantities of fish. These unsustainable practices are depleting fish stocks and threatening the marine ecosystem.
According to a report from the ENACT Centre seen by The Wall Africa Journal, governance issues such as irregular fishing contracts and lack of transparency exacerbate the crisis. For instance, a 2018 agreement allowed Chinese companies to fish within 24 nautical miles of Somalia’s shores under conditions that remain poorly monitored. Critics argue that such deals, often clouded by corruption, undermine the country’s fisheries sector.
Broader Implications and Transnational Crimes
The report also highlights the links between IUU fishing and transnational organized crimes, including money laundering, corruption, and forced labor on fishing vessels. Additionally, the illegal fishing trade has been used as justification for acts of piracy by Somali gangs, further destabilizing the region.
The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), responsible for managing tuna stocks, has struggled to enforce conservation measures effectively. While it can propose regulations, enforcement largely depends on member states, many of which lack the resources or capacity to tackle sophisticated IUU networks.
In response to these challenges, Somalia’s Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy has introduced measures such as banning trawling within federal waters and revising vessel licensing guidelines to increase transparency. The government has also enhanced collaboration with Türkiye and Denmark, leading to the arrest of 33 fishermen from Iran and Pakistan and the imposition of $356,000 in fines on illegal fishers.
However, as noted in the ENACT report, corruption and collusion with foreign companies remain significant obstacles to progress. Strengthening anti-corruption measures and adopting technology-driven solutions, like those used in Norway and the Philippines, are identified as critical steps for improving fisheries management.
The report warns that without sustainable practices and stricter enforcement, yellowfin tuna populations could collapse, severely impacting global food security and the livelihoods of Somalia’s coastal communities. A multi-pronged approach, including enhanced regional cooperation, stricter regulations, and improved oversight, is essential to safeguard Somalia’s fisheries and maritime ecosystem.
The report concludes that addressing these challenges requires urgent action to combat organized crime, protect marine biodiversity, and secure economic opportunities for coastal populations.