Low Catches Deepen Fish Vendors’ Woes

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ADNews-Monrovia: Low catches are increasingly deepening the woes of fish vendors, causing significant financial strain and uncertainty. With diminishing fish supplies, vendors find it increasingly difficult to meet customer demand, leading to higher prices and reduced profits.

By Stephen G. Fellajuah

This ongoing crisis underscores the urgent need for sustainable fishing practices to restore fish populations and support the livelihoods of those dependent on the industry. Without immediate action, the future of fish vendors and their communities remains dependent on chance.

In the vicinity of King Gray Community in Paynesville along the RIA highway, an elderly woman named Mathalyn Monyou, believed to be in her 40s, shared her experience regarding the current fishing situation. She emphasized that fishermen are now bringing in fish in low quantities, causing distress for the numerous fish vendors who gather on the beach daily. Only a few vendors can afford to purchase the limited supply, and they face high prices, leaving the majority unable to participate in the market. This scarcity is exacerbating the challenges faced by vendors and impacting their livelihoods.

“We do not go out to sea, but we believe conditions are becoming difficult for fishermen, which is why their catches are low. As a result, the few fish that are available are sold at high prices, making it hard for many of us to buy them. Today, some of us are going home empty-handed, with no market to sell our goods”, she lamented.

Also speaking, Rebecca Peters, a fish vendor, explained that canoe fishermen have been complaining about diminishing catches on a daily basis. This decline according to her, has left them facing financial constraints, for many to settle their debts. The ongoing struggles in the fishing community are affecting not only the fishermen but also the vendors who rely on their supply for income.

Ms. Peters, a former tycoon in the fish business in Grand Bassa County before relocating to Paynesville, stated that she sells all kinds of fish, which has been her primary means of livelihood. However, she noted that the challenges facing the business have overwhelmed the sector, stressing that the current struggles reflect broader issues impacting the fishing industry as a whole.

Fishmongers from far and near lamented that the current situation is posing serious challenges their livelihoods. They expressed concern about the struggles they face in providing for their families, especially their children. The diminishing fish supply and rising prices have intensified their challenges, leaving many feeling desperate for a solution.

She used the opportunity to appeal to the government of Liberia, local and international organizations, and well-meaning Liberians for assistance. She urged them to provide empowerment packages and business support specifically for fishmongers, particularly women, to help improve their livelihoods and enhance their quality of life.

Emmanuel Zakpah, Chief of the King Gray Community beach, intoned that fishing is an unpredictable endeavor, making it a business of both loss and gain. He emphasized the inherent risks involved, which complicate the financial stability of those reliant on this industry.

Zakpah, who is also a fisherman and owner of two canoes, explained that there are times when they fish for  three days or maybe a week without catching anything. He demonstrated that when fishermen fail to catch fish, vendors are unable to sell. He shared the story of a woman who spent all her market money on multiple trips to buy bonny fish, only to return frustrated and empty-handed. This situation illustrates the ripple effect of low catches on the entire fishing community.

He pointed out that many market women come from far and wide, with some traveling from Kakata and Harbel in Margibi County, while others are from around Paynesville and Monrovia. Observing the extensive reach of the fishing trade and the challenges these women face in securing their livelihoods amid declining catches.

Boasting over three decades of experience as a fisherman, he stated, “This was never like this; I think fish are becoming scarce, or something else is affecting the catches. Things are now getting difficult. I often help some of the market women buy food because they come with high hopes but leave with nothing to sell.”

He suggested that many may consider abandoning fishing altogether, as it often leads to serious debt, especially during periods of low or no catches. This reflects the growing challenges in the fishing industry and the difficult choices faced by those in the fishing community.

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