Under the Future Blue Project, led by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), General Assemblies were recently held for the creation and revitalization of Community Fishing Councils (CCPs) in the Memba, Nacala-a-Velha, and Mossuril Districts in the Province of Nampula. The Environmental Association (AMA) led this activity in collaboration with the National Fisheries Administration (ADNAP) and WCS, aiming to establish governance and planning structures for the co-management of local fishery resources.
Mr. Zacarias Atair - ADNAP (right side), and Mr. Mamudo - AMA (left side) during the process of setting up the Lapuela CCP, supporting the preparation of the business plan
The General Assemblies took place in the Administrative Posts (APs) of Matibane, Lunga, Namalala, and Baixo Pinda, resulting in the creation of CCPs in Munhohola, Crusse, Geba, Napila, Mussenqua, Lapuela, Muanangome, as well as the revitalization of CCPs in Chicoma and Matibane. During these meetings, the leadership bodies of the CCPs were established, including the General Assembly, the CCP's Executive Board, the Fiscal Council, the Fishing Center Coordinators, and CCP members.
Time of election of the members of the Board of Directors of the CCP
The new CCPs followed the Standard Statute of CCPs, outlining the responsibilities of each position and member, and received initial induction on the Maritime Fishing Regulations (REPMAR). Additionally, activity plans for the first quarter of each CCP's operation were developed and are being implemented with AMA's field support. The following steps are planned for the ongoing development of recently created CCPs:
- Legalization and Training of CCPs: This activity is managed by AMA, with support from WCS, specialist Jason Rubens, and the Mozambique Institute of Oceanography (InOM), in collaboration with ADNAP and the District Secretariats of Agriculture and Economic Development (SDAEs). The training will cover various areas to ensure the proper functioning of CCPs and effective management of Community Fishing Management Areas (APGCs) and Resource Reserve Areas (ARRs). This training will continue until 2027.
- Equipping CCPs: This activity will be coordinated by ProAzul and WCS and will include providing headquarters, patrol boats, and safety equipment for CCPs. This phase will be implemented by 2026.
These activities represent a continuous commitment to the sustainable development of local fishing communities, aiming not only to preserve natural resources but also to strengthen governance structures and participatory management of these resources. Collaboration among the various entities involved is fundamental for the success of these initiatives and to ensure that CCPs operate efficiently and legally in the future.