Populations of sardinella, a vital protein-rich fish species, are experiencing a rapid decline in Guinea-Bissau’s waters. A report from OCCRP suggests this decline is linked to industrial fishing operations targeting sardinella for fishmeal production.
Madeiran sardinella and round sardinella are significant components of fishmeal, used in animal feed. However, these fish are also a primary food source for communities in Guinea-Bissau and across West Africa. A government fisheries assessment revealed that sardinella stocks have been significantly depleted, coinciding with the arrival of Chinese fishmeal factories and Turkish fishing fleets. While other factors might contribute, export data suggests Chinese-owned factory ships and a Turkish fleet’s large-scale targeting of sardinella are principal contributors to the observed stock decline between 2013 and 2025.
Source: Mongabay