Development of digital fisheries information systems and knowledge sharing platforms for managers and value chain actors

Abstract

This report presents outcomes, important takeaways, and suggestions from the digital fisheries information system component of PROFISHBLUE project's execution in Zambia and Malawi. The project is officially known as the Programme for Improving Fisheries Governance and Blue Economy Trade Corridors in the SADC region and funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and coordinated by the SADC Secretariat. Despite the blue economy being critical to the livelihoods of artisanal fisherfolks and smallholder aquaculture farmers and overall economic growth, it remains vulnerable to climate change. The project was based on the need to strengthen the resilience of aquatic food systems to climate change. In this context, Digital Climate Information and Advisory Services (DCIAS) for aquaculture and fisheries information systems were seen as essential for informed and data-driven decision making to deal with climate risks for building resilience, enhancing food, nutrition, and livelihood security across aquatic food systems..