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FCWC 15th Conference of Ministers – A Milestone for Regional Fisheries Cooperation

On the 11-12 December 2024 at Monrovia, Liberia the Advisory and Consulting Committee (ACC) session of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC) took place proceeding the 15th FCWC Conference of Ministers. This important session brought together key figures from the FCWC’s three main organs to push forward regional fisheries cooperation. The ACC, which includes the heads of national fisheries administrations or their representatives, plays a crucial role in overseeing the Secretariat’s activities, offering technical and scientific advice to the Conference of Ministers, and guiding the Secretary-General on the implementation of decisions made.

The conference kicked off with a welcome address from FCWC Secretary Dr. Gaston Antoine Djihint. This was followed by remarks from the Executive Director of Ghana’s Fisheries Commission and current ACC Chairperson, Director Fred Antwi-Boadu. He emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in ensuring the long-term sustainability of fisheries and called for all member countries to implement the proposed close season. Director Antwi-Boadu also commended the work of the FCWC Secretariat, encouraging them to continue building strong partnerships within the global fisheries community.

Stop Illegal fishing is one of the technical partners of the FCWC, and Sandy Davies from the SIF team, presented on the Regional Record of Authorized Fishing Vessels. This initiative is designed to provide national benefits, with a roadmap outlining developments for 2025-2026. When fully implemented, a Regional Record will create a comprehensive system for sharing information on authorized fishing vessels, enhancing fisheries management by limiting access to vessels engaged in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. The success of this initiative depends on the political will and commitment of Member States, underscoring the critical role of the Conference of Ministers in facilitating this progress.