On Monday, February 26, 2024, the Department of Fisheries in The Gambia commenced a nine-day course aimed at enhancing the capacities of Fisheries Inspectors and Gambia Navy personnel in port inspection procedures.

The training program is designed to facilitate the effective implementation of the FAO 2009 Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), which seeks to eliminate illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. It will equip participants with the skills necessary to act as trainers and share their knowledge with colleagues who are unable to attend. Director Mbenga emphasized that the training has covered crucial concepts that, once understood, will significantly enhance the learners’ performance in port inspections.

The opening of the training was attended by The Gambia’s Director of Fisheries, Anna Mbenga, who highlighted the country’s commitment to the FAO 2009 PSMA, having been a signatory since July 2016. Director Mbenga emphasized the importance of these trainings in building human capacity for the enforcement of port state initiatives. She noted that the Department of Fisheries’ Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance unit, in collaboration with an FAO consultant, has developed nine standard operating procedures and templates to guide the implementation of the 2009 FAO Agreement on Port State Measures.

The Department of Fisheries expressed gratitude to the German government and other partners for their support in organizing the training program. The rigorous training is expected to contribute to The Gambia’s efforts to combat illegal fishing and ensure the sustainable management of its marine resources.