Togo takes bold steps against illegal fishing in West African Waters

As West Africa faces growing threats from illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, Togo is emerging as a regional leader in maritime governance. The government has announced a strict biological rest period for 2025, banning all industrial and artisanal fishing from July to August a decisive move to protect marine ecosystems, ensure food security, and promote the blue economy.

The initiative, spearheaded by Togo’s Ministry of Maritime Resources, reflects President Faure Gnassingbé’s commitment to positioning the country as a key player in regional maritime policy.

This was further underscored by a recent meeting in Lomé with members of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea (FCWC), including Benin, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, and Nigeria.

Backed by regional and international experts, the discussions focused on harmonizing monitoring and control measures, notably through a regional vessel registry accessible via the FCWC’s surveillance center.

This system aims to curb illegal fishing while improving transparency in licensing a critical step toward a sustainable, unified framework for coastal economic stability.

With this structured approach, Togo reinforces its sovereignty over natural resources and deepens regional cooperation in safeguarding West Africa’s marine future.

Chantal TAWELESSI