The fishing pressure is an increasing threat to the sustainability of fishery resources in Lake Tanganyika

The fishing pressure is an increasing threat to the sustainability of fishery resources in Lake Tanganyika, mentions M. Gaspard Ntakimazi in the “National Action Plan (NAP) for implementing the Strategic Action Programme (SAP) for protecting the biodiversity and sustainable management of natural resources in Lake Tanganyika basin”.

According to the same source, the main challenges identified in the SAP adopted by the Lake Tanganyika Authority Conference of Ministers in February, are such as an excessive fishing pressure in the pelagic area, an excessive fishing pressure in the littoral area and catches of ornamental fishes poorly controlled.

Management of fisheries and activities affecting the lake basin should be done under the regional planning frame including activities on the basin and the lake resources, as fisheries are now characterized by a free access. Interventions proposed for developing sustainable fisheries in this lake are such as reviewing and updating the national components of the Fisheries Management Frame Plan, developing and implementing fishing license process, improve the involvement of local communities in fisheries management, and promote sustainable fisheries alternative livelihoods.