Women in Somalia’s fisheries sector take center stage in a groundbreaking initiative addressing systemic challenges.
A two-day workshop hosted by EUCAP Somalia and Somalia’s Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy is set to redefine opportunities for women in the country’s fisheries sector. Held on December 9-10 in Mogadishu, the initiative attracted stakeholders across the industry to confront systemic barriers and promote women’s leadership in maritime industries.
The workshop focused on the entire fisheries value chain, from aquaculture and processing to sales and extraction. Despite their significant contributions, women in Somalia’s fisheries sector often face hurdles such as inadequate access to resources, training, and decision-making platforms.
EUCAP Somalia fisheries expert Alberto Lopez-Asenjo called the workshop a “transformative journey,” emphasizing the need to amplify women’s voices and recognize their contributions. Interactive sessions explored fisheries governance, business strategies, environmental policy, and international legal frameworks, offering practical solutions to bolster women’s involvement and leadership in Somalia’s blue economy.
EUCAP Somalia, operational since 2016, supports the country’s maritime security and governance. This initiative marks another step in its mission to strengthen Somalia’s maritime capacity while fostering inclusivity in one of its most critical industries.
By addressing these challenges, the workshop aims to unlock the full potential of Somalia’s fisheries sector, driving sustainable development and gender equity in an industry vital to the country’s economy and food security.
